Police officers saved two children who were being attacked by a vicious pit bull yesterday.

Armed officers and plainclothed police rushed to Crowther Road, South Norwood after receiving reports that an eight-year-old girl was being pinned down by a pit bull type dog.

When the police arrived, a brave 14-year-old boy had managed to pull the animal off the girl allowing her to run home.

Police officers took over from the teenager to try and restrain the powerful animal under the watchful eyes of armed police.

An eyewitness said: “It was a terrible scene.

"Police were trying to get the dog, it was really vicious, it was touch and go for a while.”

A police spokeswoman said: “The boy had dragged the dog off the girl by the collar.

“Plainclothed officers and then uniformed officers took over the restraint of the dog.

“The three officers had to pass batons through the dogs collar to get any control over the dog.

“One of these officers assisted, despite being allergic to dogs.

“The dog was very powerful, managing to lift the officers.

“As a precautionary measure armed police officers attended but did not have to intervene.

“The officers had to continue restraining the dog for 20 minutes until the dog van arrived.

“The dog was placed in a secure loop and removed to the police station.”

The girl was treated by LAS for minor cuts and bruises. The officer suffered swollen eyes and an allergic rash.

A spokeswoman said: “This matter is being investigated. No arrests have been made.”

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