A DOBERMAN called Elvis escaped from his home and terrorised passing cyclists, a court heard.

Joseph Louis Elliott today pleaded guilty to being the dog's owner while it was dangerously out of control at Bishop Auckland Magistrates' Court.

The incident happened near Elliott's home, Hilton Moor Farm, Moor Lane, Evenwood Gate, County Durham on September 23.

The court heard a grandfather and grandson had been cycling past when the black and tan dog started barking and snarling at them.

Alison Nunn, prosecuting, said the grandfather got off his bike to help his distressed grandson and the dog blocked his path "He was shouting at the dog to get back in," she said.

"The grandson was terrified by the incident and was wanting to go home."

Elliott, who represented himself, said Elvis, who is two, was not a threat.

"He is frightened himself," he said.

"He makes a noise but he wouldn't bite anybody."

The bench imposed a control order which stipulates the dog must be kept indoors or a wire be installed beneath the fence to make sure Elvis could not escape.

Elliott was also fined £148 and asked to pay £43 costs.