A man's been protected from two would-be muggers in Weston - by his dog.

The 43 year old was walking his pet at about 9 P-M last Wednesday - when he became aware someone was following him, and diverted along Ashcombe Park Road.

There a second person on a mountain bike demanded money from him, and grabbed him when he refused - but the victim got free and let his canine companion off its lead, scaring off the robber.