The amnesty, by Easington Council, comes after a five-year-old girl was mauled to death by a pit bull terrier-type dog in Merseyside.

Anyone who owns a dog banned under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 is asked to hand the animal over to the council.

Four types of animal are banned: pit bull terriers, the Japanese Tosa, the Dogo Argentino and the Fila Brazileiro.

In cases where there is confusion over cross or similar breeds, the council's dog wardens can make a home visit to help identification and provide advice.

Councillor George Patterson, said: "The council aims to promote responsible dog ownership and will only destroy dogs as a last resort.

"Whilst the welfare of dogs is important to us the safety of our residents is paramount and we will do what ever we can to reduce any risk of dangerous dog incidents."