A CLUB teaching dog owners to better control their pets is to be relaunched in response to a spate of recent attacks across the borough.

Canine behavioural consultant Gordon Salmon is bringing back his Big Dog Club, which was originally set up 30 years ago, after reading about a series of dog attacks over the summer that left victims with serious injuries.

In August, John Meakin needed facial surgery after being attacked by a Doberman-type dog in Limefield, just days before sisters Caitlin and Megan Costello, aged 12 and 13, were left with severe leg wounds after being bitten outside their Radcliffe home.

Radcliffe 10-year-old Luke Chadwick also suffered deep bite wounds following an attack on the King George V field, in Radcliffe.

Mr Salmon, who has been an expert witness in court trials and run an active protection dog unit during a 40-year career, said: "Dogs are not born bad, they learn from their environment, from the actions and teachings of their owners.

"To own a dog is a great responsibility and it is important to learn how to earn the respect of your pet so it looks to you for leadership and security. A well bred and cared for dog makes not just for a safer but a more contented pet, one that you can enjoy a closer and more rewarding relationship with."

Membership of the club will be open to owners of fully inoculated German shepherd, Labrador, Rottweiler, Spaniel, Spitz and other breeds, including pit bull and pit bull type dogs as long as they are legally registered.

Mr Salmon, who is also consultant behavioural trainer to Bleakholt Animal Sanctuary and evaluates dogs on behalf of Manchester City Council, added: "I’m a consultant to the Crown Prosecution Service and under legal obligation to report any pit bulls that have not gone through the registration process. It’s an obligation I take very seriously."

There will be no membership charges for the club, with fees payable only for each training session held every Wednesday from 7pm to 9pm at a private site in Ainsworth.

Owners interested in joining the club can ring 07572 298707.