Police have cordoned off a large area of land as they search for evidence following random knife attack which led to a dog being stabbed in the chest.

The incident happened at around 7pm yesterday on grassland next to Epping Forest College in Borders Lane, Debden,

A man attempted to stab a dog-walker with a kitchen knife.

The victim was not injured but his dog, a Rottweiler, suffered a stab wound to the chest and was taken to a vet, where he remains in a stable condition.

Police have taped the area off as they scan for forensic evidence and the weapon used in the attack, which they believe may have been dropped as the suspect fled over a fence into Colson Road.

The knife is described as a kitchen knife with a five to seven inch blade and a black handle. 

The attacker is described as white, aged 17 to 22, 6ft 3ins to 6ft 5ins, of athletic/muscular build, with short hair, and clean shaven.

He was wearing a grey tracksuit top, shorts, and trainers and also carried a dark bag which was over his left shoulder.

No arrests have been made.

Police are appealing for any witnesses or anyone with information to contact Detective Inspector Paul Tindall on 101 or ring Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.