A Darlington woman has been left frightened after receiving anonymous letters about her pet dog.

A series of letters have been posted through Ann Swain's door on Larchfield Street since Christmas complaining about her small dog, Penny.

The letters complain about the dog barking and ask Mrs Swain to keep her inside the home and to have more respect for her neighbours.

They do not include a name or address and are not signed. Several of the letters threaten to report Mrs Swain to Darlington Borough Council.

"My daughter bought me Penny when I moved into the flat as a companion," she said.

"She has an overgrown heart and was predicted to only live a year but she is four now.

"All my neighbours love her, and when she is in the yard she watches people walk past.

"But these letters are very upsetting and I am frightened to go out at night. I am also scared for my dog."

Mrs Swain has reported the letters to the local beat officer and is appealing for the sender to get in touch so they can discuss their concerns.

"We have about ten dogs on the street and they all bark at times but we have no trouble and no one else has received letters," she said.

"I just want to live in peace and enjoy my dog. I would just like to ask this person to come and speak with me, face to face, so we can sort the matter out sensibly."