A dog reportedly "ripped" a man's lip off in a shocking attack.

Police have launched an investigation into the incident in which the victim was injured by the animal in Hill Road, Folkestone.

A post shared on Facebook about the incident on Wednesday says the victim, believed to be in his 40s, sustained gruesome injuries.

The social media user said: "He has been in the hospital all night as the dog has ripped half his lip off and will definitely need a skin graft."

However, police could not confirm any further details regarding the incident, including the animal's breed, the severity of the man's injuries or whether the pet had an owner with it.

A spokesman for the force said: "We are investigating after a man was reportedly injured by a dog.

"The incident was not reported at the time, but officers have since spoken to the man and inquiries to establish the full circumstances are ongoing."

Anyone who witnessed the incident, or has any information, is urged to call police on 01843 222289, quoting the crime reference number 03-0441.