A man who openly beat up his dog in front of picnickers has been sentenced to 180 hours' community service and banned from keeping dogs for five years.

Dean Digweed, 35, of Mulgrave Road, Sutton, dragged, punched and kicked his rottweiler, Kai, when the pet tried to greet another dog in Manor Park, Sutton.

The unemployed glamour photographer told Sutton Magistrates' Court on Thursday, June 3, he believed there was nothing wrong with using force to control the animal. In addition to the ban and community service, magistrates ordered Digweed to pay £1,000 towards the RSPCA's £16,500 legal costs.

RSPCA inspector Ian Gough said Kai was very good-natured.

He said the attack was "malicious and unprovoked".

The sustained attack took place in the busy park on Sunday, June 27, last year.

Digweed began abusing his dog after Kai walked from him to sniff another dog, whose owner told him to stop.

He then dragged Kai to another part of the park, where he continued the attack.

A witness ran to Sutton police station and was told to contact the RSPCA.

Mr Gough later interviewed Digweed and took Kai to a vet where he received treatment before being taken to an RSPCA animal centre.

After the sentence, Mr Gough said: "This was a grave offence.

"I am pleased that the magistrates have taken it seriously.

"This is certainly not an acceptable method of dog training.

"Kai is a wonderful dog and I am pleased he will now be able to be found a loving new home."

Kai is being looked after temporarily in Kent before being found a permanent new home.