A police investigation has been launched after a 66-year-old man was allegedly seen abusing a dog with a leather lead in the street and threatening a member of the public who tried to intervene.

Cumbria police appealed for witnesses to the incident, which they said occurred on Mossbay Road in Workington at about 4pm on Sunday, April 25.

During the incident, a male was allegedly seen abusing a dog with a leather lead.

When a member of the public attempted to intervene, he allegedly became verbally aggressive towards them.

A spokesperson for Cumbria police said: “A 66-year-old man from Workington was arrested on suspicion of causing racially-aggravated fear of violence and causing unnecessary suffering to a protected animal.”

The man has been released under investigation. 

The spokesperson added: “Anyone with any information is encouraged to contact police on 101, quoting incident number 165 of April 25.

“Alternatively, you can call the independent charity Crimestoppers, completely anonymously, on 0800 555 111.”