Memorial plan after death of popular dog

Nearly £800 has been raised in just a week as a Black Country community mourns the loss of a much-loved dog that was stabbed to death in front of its owner.

The cash will pay for a memorial for Tyson, a 12-year-old German Shepherd, which was attacked in Abbey Street, Lower Gornal by Simon Follos. Donations have flooded in from concerned neighbours since Tyson died last Tuesday.

There are now plans for a plaque to go near the spot he was stabbed. Some of the money could also go towards metal rungs to be set up outside shops for owners to attach their dogs' collars to while they go shopping. And a sum will also be given to dog charities.

Tyson's owner, Wayne Bird, is a familiar face around the village and is known as a "local character". More than 40 floral tributes were left outside the Darby and Joan Club in Abbey Street and residents have stopped members of Mr Bird's family in the street to show their support.

His aunt, Rose Beedles, said: "It's been unbelievable just how many people have come forward – it shows just how popular Tyson was. Pensioners coming up to me and crying and giving me their spare change.

"We want something good to come from the money."

Follos, aged 38, will be sentenced next month after pleading guilty to possessing a bladed article in public, causing unnecessary suffering to an animal, and a charge of criminal damage by destroying a dog.

Dudley Magistrates Court heard last week that Follos threatened to cut Mr Bird's throat when the dog owner walked past his house.

They argued for about 10 minutes when the dog began to bark and Follos stabbed the dog in the side of the chest.