DOG owners have been urged to follow the rules in a Worcester park after a series of attacks in the area.

The County Council's Countryside Service has said that it welcomes pet lovers to Worcester Woods Country Park, but only the responsible ones.

Recent events, as reported in the Worcester News, have included a girl being bitten on the face, a Yorkshire Terrier being ripped to death, and canine fights.

Andy Maginnis, countryside estates manager for the county council, said: "The vast majority of dog owners behave in a responsible manner and don't interfere with other visitors' enjoyment of the park.

"However, recently a particular dog was involved in an incident with a child and also subsequently attacked another dog.

"We contacted the owner who informed us that as a responsible owner she had decided to stop bringing her dog to the park.

"There are a few simple rules which we ask dog owners to follow including keeping their pet out of the children's play area and on a lead in the picnic area.

"Unfortunately, over the bank holiday a stray dog came on to the park and had to be caught and impounded.

"This was an unfortunate and isolated incident and wasn't due to irresponsible behaviour by a visitor.

"We would also like to remind people that we expect all park users to behave in a responsible manner - not just dog walkers.

"On any given day there are kite-flyers, dog walkers, cyclists, picknickers, school groups, nature watchers, children on the play area, cafe users and numerous other visitors who are all happily co-existing.

"This relies on a bit of give and take on everyone's part."

Dot Kyte, local dog trainer and park visitor, said: "Most dog walkers I come across are responsible and keep their dogs under control, clean up after them and respect other visitors who perhaps don't share their enthusiasm for their pets.

"It's all about behaving in a responsible manner and making sure your dog is properly trained. People should be able to visit the park in safety. However, I would encourage all parents to follow the age-old advice not to approach a strange dog without the owner's permission."

The Countryside Centre at Worcester Woods Country Park has recently been re-opened following an extensive refurbishment.

The facilities, including a cafe, toilets, nature trails and a children's play area, are open seven days a week.