A family told of their sadness after their pet dog had to have a leg amputated following a hit-and-run accident.

Doberman Labrador cross Macs suffered horrific injuries to his right hind leg when he was hit by a car in Somnes Road, Canvey, late on Wednesday.

He was rescued by a passing motorist who found him collapsed nearby and rushed to a vet's surgery in Benfleet.

On Friday vets were forced to amputate the leg.

Devastated owner Angela Baldock said: "I have got two children here crying their eyes out and I've had to tell them their dog has lost its leg.

"We were very worried he would have to be put down, so at least it is slightly good news."

Macs had escaped from the family's garden in Linden Way when he went chasing after a cat.

Angela said: "I really hope the person who did this is caught soon."

Published Tuesday, February 19, 2002