AN 11-year-old girl grabbed around the throat by a man was saved when her attacker was disturbed by a dog walker.

A police spokesman said the girl had become separated from friends she had been playing with in Wallsend, North Tyneside, at 12.35pm on Monday.

She ended up on a cycle path which runs between Benton Cat and Dog Shelter and the Balliol Business Park.

She was approached by a man who grabbed her by the throat and dragged her backwards to the ground. However, he ran off when a man walking dogs crossed the top of the cycle path, along Benton Lane.

Police are keen to trace the dog walker, who was described as being in his late 40s and wearing a green Barbour-type jacket. He had three dogs, including a labrador.

The attacker was described as being in his 20s, with blue eyes and brown hair covered by the hood of his three-quarter length black jacket. He was wearing black cotton gloves and beige trousers.

Anyone with information has been asked to call 0191-214 6555, ext 63326.