A FAMILY are concerned for their safety and that of other dog-walkers after a 63-year-old man was attacked whilst out walking his dog in Yate.

Chris Palmer sustained a number of injuries after being beaten and kicked on the ground by another man shortly before 6.30pm on October 29 when he tried to stop a German Shepherd from attacking his small dog.

Mr Palmer, was walking his Bichon Frise in a field near Autumn Brook and Coopers Lake in Brimsham Park when the large black German Shepherd that was off lead ran towards them and began and ‘aggressively growling.’

Mr Palmer shouted to alert its owner at which point the German Shepherd ran away.

Moments later the dog returned and attacked Mr Palmers dog. When trying to separate the animals, Mr Palmer was attacked by the owner.

The elderly man was punched to the ground and then repeatedly kicked in the back and the ribs by the attacker who was with a female and young children.

A family member said that Mr Palmer is now frightened to walk his dog alone and has trouble standing due to the extent of his injuries.

“We are devastated that this has happened to our gentle father. He has been made to fell afraid to leave his own house. How can a man probably half his age, with his own family present, beat an elderly man and kick him when he’s led on the ground, its beyond disgusting.

“As a family we urge anyone who may have saw anything to please come forward so this doesn’t happen to any other defenceless person.”

A Spokesperson for Avon and Somerset Police said they are keen to hear from anyone who witnessed the assault.

Officers attended on the evening and took details while another unit carried out a search of the area for the suspect, with no trace.

The attacker is described as a white man in his early 20s, about 5ft 10ins tall and stocky, with short dark hair. He wore a dark-coloured hoody, jeans and trainers.

The female he was with was pushing a buggy and had three children.

Anyone who witnessed the incident or who has any other information which could help is asked to call 101 and give the reference 5221254228.