Burglars beat up a German Shepherd dog before raiding a house in broad daylight.

Three men are believed to have broken into the house in Woodcote Road, Wallington, and attacked the animal to stop it barking yesterday (Tuesday, June 4), at about 2.20pm.

The burglars only left when one of the homeowner's sons arrived and interrupted them.

They fled, with their faces covered, with jewellery and money but police believe they would have taken more were they not disturbed.

The dog was still cowering under a table when officers arrived at the house and had to be taken to a vet, although its injuries are not life threatening.

Two other dogs in the house were not attacked but they are unlikely to have been aggressive towards the intruders.

The burglars were three white men who left in an estate car, parked in Green Lane, and drove towards Purley.

If you saw the incident or have any other information, you can call police on 020 8649 0747 or contact the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.