A dog which launched itself at a walker’s neck in a random park attack can continue to live in a family home with five small children, a court has ruled.

Sylvester Campbell, unemployed, of Lichfield Road in Woodford Green, admitted being in charge of a dangerously out of control dog and causing injury after his mastiff bit a 56-year-old man on April 19. 

Park user Howard Clarke and his partner were walking through Highams Park field when the attack took place.

Thames Magistrates Court heard yesterday how the dog “launched itself" towards Mr Clarke's neck without warning, breaking its collar and releasing it from its lead.

Mr Clarke raised his left arm to defend himself and the dog locked on to his left bicep, drawing blood and ripping his shirt.

Campbell then jumped on the dog and it released its grip. He was arrested nearby after fleeing the scene.

A report by a dog expert and a police officer concluded it was not a danger to the public but recommended it be muzzled and kept on a lead in public.

This was accepted by the judge.

Addressing Campbell, District Judge Clark said: “You sought to avoid responsibility because you were in shock and were genuinely concerned and affected by what appears to be a one-off attack".

The 24-year-old was sentenced to 100 hours of unpaid work and ordered to pay £200 compensation to Mr Clarke.

For more on this story, see next week's Guardian - out Thursday.