The bank holiday weekend turned into a nightmare for a couple on holiday after their family pet was attacked by another dog and later died.

Paula, 54, and Simon Friend, 59, who live in Devon, were visiting their daughter Emily, 25, who works as a veterinary nurse at Barrow Hill Vets in Ashford, with their two dogs, a retriever and Jack Russell, for the weekend.

The couple took a trip to Greatstone beach on Sunday when their dog, Badger the Jack Russell, was attacked and died.

Paula Friend, said: “It was such a lovely day but all changed very quickly and our world has been turned upside down.”

Mrs Friend said after walking along the beach at Greatstone the group encountered a young man with a large dog as they walked back along the road way.

She said: “He decided that he would cross the road. I stood back and my husband with our retriever stood behind us.

“The dog started pulling to get across to us and we still stood where we were.”

The dog then slipped out of its collar and ran for Badger.

Mrs Simon said: “He just picked our dog up and he was just swinging him round. People were stopping their cars and running out their houses. They were just trying to desperately get our dog. I was just screaming for help.

“The young boy must have phoned his mum who came with a choke collar. The young lad’s trousers were just ripped off him. We felt sorry for him as well. The people had only had the dog for two weeks after they had rehomed it.”

The Friends’ other dog, Frank the retreiver, was quickly moved away, but Badger was left with fatal injuries.

“I was driven to the vets in Ashford by a wonderful man who lives in Greatstone while my husband stayed with our other dog waiting for the police. I knew it wasn’t good. Badger couldn’t move. It was the biggest dog I have ever seen. I have never been so scared in my life and so very helpless. It’s just so sad.

“We want to thank all the people who stopped and desperately tried to help and warn those that take on these very powerful dogs.”

Mr Friend said: “You don’t understand the power of these animals. The vet that works with Emily was brilliant. Everybody was just brilliant.”

The Friends hope to get in touch with anyone who helped to say a personal thanks, in particular the Listers.

Police say the incident was reported to them at 1.44pm on Sunday, but no arrests have been made and no criminal offences have been reported.

Did you help the Friends? They want to say a personal thanks. Email kentishexpress@thekmgroup.co.uk and we can help put you in touch.