A dog owner whose pet bit a member of the public has been told if it happens again the animal will be put down.

Nina Whitely, 20, was yesterday warned by magistrates in Worthing that there will be no reprieve next time for her dog Krakatoa, a cross breed.

Whitely, of The Finches, Shoreham, had taken her two dogs to Erringham Farm Stables in Shoreham on November 20 last year.

A member of the public went to pat one of the dogs but was bitten on the leg by Krakatoa.

Kirsten Sharp, prosecuting, said: "Without warning the dog bit her, causing a deep injury that required stitches."

Whitely, who admitted failing to keep the dog under control, told the court it was an accident.