A DOG walker claims she was slapped after challenging a man whose dog was off the lead.

The incident unfolded in a park off Hannam’s Close, in Lytchett Matravers, at around 6.55pm on Friday, November 22.

The victim – a woman in her 60s – was walking her dogs when a dog charged over that was off the lead, police said.

Now, police have issued an image of a person they would like to trace in connection with the alleged assault.

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“The victim challenged the male dog owner, who subsequently came over and slapped her on the cheek. She did not sustain any injuries,” a Dorset Police spokesperson said. “As the victim went to call the police, the man tried to grab her phone.”

The dog is described as a dark-coloured collie-type dog.

Detective Sergeant Karen Penn, of Dorset Police, said: “As part of my enquiries, I am issuing images of a man I would like to identify.

“I would ask anyone who recognises him to please contact Dorset Police.”

Anyone with information, or who recognises the person pictured, should contact Dorset Police via www.dorset.police.uk, or by calling 101, quoting incident number 55240180104. They can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or by calling 0800 555 111.

Officers are keen to trace this person after the incident in Lytchett Matravers. Picture: Dorset Police