A MAN was mugged as he took his dog for a walk following a night out.

The 64-year-old returned to his home, in Colling Avenue, Seaham, in east Durham, at about 12.15am on Sunday, after attending a birthday celebration in Peterlee.

He walked his dog in the vicinity of Colling Avenue and Bethune Avenue, where he noticed two men.

On walking down an alley between the two avenues, he was hit on the back of his head and fell to the ground.

He became aware of someone touching his back pocket and on checking, when he reached home, he realised about £11 had been taken.

The victim received treatment for a cheek injury, and for a swelling to the back of his neck, at Sunderland Royal Hospital.

PC Angela Sutherland, of Seaham police, said: "The victim paid no attention to the two men and was minding his own business."

Anyone who witnessed the mugging should contact PC Sutherland, at Seaham police station, on 0191-581 2255.