A couple watched their puppy shaken to death by an Alsatian running free on Hove seafront.

Frank and Julie Neyland were on their regular evening stroll when 15-week-old shih tsu Ellie was attacked outside the Babylon Lounge on the Western Esplanade.

Building company boss Mr Neyland punched, kicked and threw stones at the Alsatian to force it to let go.

But the powerful dog ran off with Ellie in its mouth.

The couple found their pet dead in a neighbouring street.

The distraught couple pleaded with the Alsatian's owner to come forward and warned other pet owners to be aware.

Mrs Neyland, 42, of Livingstone Road, Hove, said: "Ellie only weighed five and a half pounds. She was a very timid dog who was terrified of people. We are devastated to lose her like this - but imagine if it had been a toddler.

"This is a dangerous animal that should not have been running free on its own.

"I am sure its owner must really love their dog but they have to come forward and take responsibility for its actions. It was terrifying and I still can't believe it."

The incident happened shortly before 10pm on Saturday as Mr and Mrs Neyland were walking home along the promenade.

Ellie had been on a lead but with no other dogs in sight they let her off to scamper just ahead of them.

Police have taken a statement from the Neylands and given details to Brighton and Hove City Council's dog warden.

A council spokeswoman said: "We are appealing to anyone who may have witnessed this incident or knows anything about the unaccompanied Alsatian to contact us."