The life of a Maidstone bar owner's chihuahua is hanging in the balance after being viciously attacked by another dog in Mote Park.

Charlie, who belongs to David Folb of The Lashings restaurant and bar in Upper Stone Street, was being taken for a walk in the park last night.

He was off the lead when he was attacked by one of two cross-breed, white pit bull or Staffordshire bull terrier-type dogs.

He was being walked by Lashings manager John Tobin, along with Boris - a long-haired Jack Russell.

Mr Tobin ran to pull off Charlie's attacker, but the little dog had already been seriously injured.

Several people witnessed the attack, which happened close to the leisure centre, including children who were said to be in tears.

By coincidence, Mr Folb arrived at the scene just after the attack happened.

He said: "John was extremely brave fighting the other dog off. The owner of the aggressive dogs stood back and did nothing."

Mr Folb took Charlie first to Vets4pets in Sutton Road, Maidstone, and then to the Royal Veterinary College Hospital in Potters Bar, where Charlie is still fighting for his life.

He said: "Charlie has three broken ribs and bite wounds that have punctured his lungs. We're not sure whether he will live.

"I'm very grateful to John Tobin. Whatever small chance Charlie has is down to his brave intervention."

The attack happened at around 6.30pm. Police are investigating if the attack was caught on the leisure centre's CCTV.