A DEAF pensioner who claimed he was bitten by a police dog as he lay defenceless on the ground has lost his claim for £3,000 in damages.

Alan Little, 68, said he was set upon after Durham Police officers were called to his home in July 1998.

Newcastle County Court heard that Mr Little's son, David, arrived at the house carrying a hand-gun, and Mr Little's wife called the police.

Unaware that an armed response vehicle had arrived, Mr Little left the house but was forced to the ground by an officer and bitten twice by a German shepherd dog.

Mr Little, of Dove Cottage, Harelaw, Stanley, told the court: "When I was bitten a police officer was still holding me down."

Neighbour Anthony Palmer said in his statement: "I saw the police dog bite for no apparent reason."

But the officers who attended the scene said that Mr Little was drunk and aggressive and that the dog had attacked to protect his handler after Mr Little kicked out.

Judge Michael Cartlidge agreed that Mr Little had a drink problem and was drunk at the time of the incident.

Judge Cartlidge said that the dog, who has since retired from the force, was "obedient and well-trained".