A man has been released without charge after a dog sustained fatal injuries.

Police were called to a house in Castlemaine Avenue, Gillingham, after the 10-year-old pet got into a house in the road, and reportedly attacked another dog.

A police spokesman said: “The occupants reported they intervened in self-defence, and the dog was struck once with an ornamental sword, sustaining fatal injuries.

“Following a thorough investigation into the incident, a man arrested on suspicion of criminal damage has been released without charge.”

English bull terrier Dave had to be put to sleep following the incident on March 15.