POLICE have released an e-fit image of a man they want to speak to in connection with an attack on a dog-walker in Bradford.

Katie Stirk was walking her pet Border Collie, Doris, on a lead in Judy Woods, Wyke, when someone kicked her in the back.

The 29-year-old fell to the floor and banged her head during the incident, which happened on Saturday, June 18, between 3.30pm and 4pm. She also suffered scratches to her face.

Police believe her two male attackers were trying to steal her dog. However, they were disturbed by a passer-by and ran off empty-handed towards Wyke.

Miss Stirk said of the attack: “I was really scared, but I wasn’t bothered about myself at the time. People without dogs don’t understand, but they are like your children. I was scared they were going to get her.”

She initially feared she may have suffered a fractured skull because of discharge coming from her ear and was advised to seek medical attention.

She added: “It is all a bit of a blur. It felt like it lasted a lifetime.

“I’ve got a lot of cuts on my face, my back is quite painful and I’ve still got a headache.”

The man in the image is described as white, about 5ft 8ins tall and in his late 20s or early 30s. He was wearing a white jumper and black tracksuit bottoms with white stripes.

The second man was also white, about 5ft 5ins tall and was wearing a baseball cap, with a grey or dirty white hooded top and tracksuit bottoms.

Acting Inspector Pam Quinn, of the Bradford South Area Neighbourhood Team, said: “Our inquiries are continuing into this incident and we would like to hear from anyone who may recognise this man.

“We are also continuing to appeal for a man who came to the victim’s assistance to come forward as we believe he may have more information.”

She added: “We have not been made aware of any similar recent incidents in the area, but are warning people to be vigilant when walking their dogs.”

Miss Stirk said: “I know a lot of people walk in those woods. I go probably every weekend and I’ve been on my own before.

“I would never go on my own at night-time, but at 3.30pm you think you would be okay.”

Anyone with information about the attack is asked to contact PC 2935 Tom Sumpner at Bradford Police on 101, quoting reference 13160261503, or call Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.