Residents have told councillors how they are too frightened to walk past guard dogs on duty in their Stroud village.

Around 20 residents have told Leonard Stanley Parish Council how they are intimidated by the animals protecting stables in Gipsy Lane.

David Newton was among those who said a public footpath next to the stables had become a "no go" area for pedestrians because of the dogs.

The community concern has been fuelled by a recent incident when an Alsatian Rottweiler cross from the premises allegedly broke free and bit schoolboy Enda Maguire, eight.

Enda had surgery at Frenchay Hospital to repair torn skin.

"I am outraged," Mr Newton said. "People believe there is a dangerous dog that could come out."

But a joint statement from the council's dog wardens and the police said the dog in question exhibited no aggression towards any of the police.

A statement, said "on the contrary it was very submissive".

Sgt Steve Irvin, of Stonehouse Safer Community Team, and dogs wardens Alex Davies and Natasha Anderson said they found the dog was found secure and under the control of its owner.

"The incident has provoked deep public reaction and I'm sure that we all feel for Enda and his family," said Sgt Irvin.

"The keeping of guard dogs is legal. It is subject to certain conditions and these were being complied with.

"The fact that a dog barks at people or other dogs does not make it a dangerous dog."

However Sgt Irvin said the public had accused the police of lacking concern and action.

"This is not the case and we have acted at all times not only to preserve public safety but also with concern to the welfare of the dog," he said.

The Alsatian Rottweiler's owner, Ryeford businessman Richard Wheeler, 44, was arrested on suspicion of possession a dog dangerously out of control.

He was bailed and is to return to Stroud Police Station on March 17.

Mr Wheeler said he keeps the dog Murphy and its Rottweiler father to protect his eight horses.