A German Shepherd dog was seriously injured when it was struck by a car in a hit-and-run smash early today.

The dog was being walked by its owner in Cade Street, Heathfield, at 12.50am when it was struck close to Heathfield Community College.

A force spokesman said: "It is clear that the driver knew he had hit something because of the long tyre marks in the road leading up to the location of the collision.

"We would urge anyone who saw anything or knows anything about the incident to call us urgently."

Anyone with information is asked to call Sussex Police on 0845 6070999, or Crimestoppers in confidence on 0800 555111.