Police destroyed one of the dogs, a Bull Terrier-Bulldog cross, which had escaped from a garden in Birdwell Road, Grimesthorpe on Tuesday morning.

Officers are still trying to find the other dog, described as a Staffordshire Bull Terrier-Japanese Tosa cross.

The owner of the dogs was arrested under the Dangerous Dogs Act and has been bailed pending further inquiries.

Further surgery

A South Yorkshire Police spokesman said: "The complainant sustained serious injuries to his legs following a prolonged attack by the dogs.

"As a result of the attack he was taken to hospital where he has since undergone surgery to his injuries that are described as serious and may need further surgery in the future.

"Both dogs eventually ran off after members of the public went to assist.

"The dogs were seen running off in the direction of Wincobank Lane."

The dog which remains at large is approximately 18 months old, brown and white and is wearing a brown leather collar with the name Macey on it.

Police are warning the public not to approach or handle the dog but to call the police immediately.