A CYCLIST was bitten twice by a dog on two rides in a forest.

On Wednesday, August 2 and Tuesday, September 12, it was reported that a man was cycling between Stephen’s Castle Viewpoint and Stephen’s Stones in Ringwood Forest.

On both rides in Verwood, he was bitten by a dog and sustained injuries to his leg, requiring medical treatment.

A man with a dog reportedly left the scene after both incidents and did not leave his details.

Officers investigating the incidents are appealing for information and have released an image of a man they would like to speak to.

Police crime support investigator, Lindy Wilson, of Dorset Police, said: “This was understandably a distressing time for the cyclist involved and we hope he makes a recovery from his injuries.

“We are conducting enquiries into this matter and have obtained images of a man with the dog who we believe to be involved. We are keen to speak to this man so we can take their account of what happened.

“I would urge anyone with information relating to their identity to please come forward. I would also ask the man pictured to please do the right thing and come forward.

“I would also like to hear from any witnesses to the incident who have not already spoken to police.”

Anyone with information should contact Dorset Police at dorset.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55230127567. Alternatively, independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or by calling Freephone 0800 555 111.