TWO men tried to steal a woman’s dog as she walked it in the New Forest.

The woman, in her 20s, was with her lemon Dalmation at Holmsley Passage near Burley just before 1pm on Friday, July 20.

As she stopped near a stream, a red 4x4 vehicle, possibly a Mitsubishi or a Toyota, drove past her, then reversed back along the road towards her.

The rear passenger’s door opened, and the passenger got out and attempted to take the dog by pulling at the scruff of its neck.

The dog began barking, and the owner kept hold of the lead and shouted at the men.

They then drove off at speed, empty handed.

Hampshire Police said the occupants of the vehicle had been drawing attention of themselves by shouting through a loud hailer as they drove along.

The first man is described as white, aged 19 or 20, of small build and with short, dark hair. He was wearing a brown mesh-knit jumper, khaki shorts and bright white socks with a Nike tick on them. He had a young, clean-shaven face and big brown eyes and bushy eyebrows.

The second man is described as aged 25 to 30 and of large build. He was wearing a red t-shirt and had a large round face with a cleft chin and stubble.

Dog owners are urged to be vigilant and report any suspicious activity to police immediately.

Anyone with information should contact Hampshire Constabulary on 101 quoting 44180275956.