I am writing as I feel very strongly that on Weymouth beach in the winter months, dog walking should still be limited to the zoned area that is used in the summer months. I regularly take my small children to the main Weymouth beach for fresh air and play, even in the winter months.

We are regularly plagued by dogs who knock my children over, and quite frankly terrify them. This Sunday was no exception. I was knocked over while sitting on a beach blanket, and felt the teeth of a dog around my neck. The dog then proceeded to dive at my three-year-old son’s face, knocking him to the ground and jumping on him. The owner gave a disgusted look when we asked her to control her dog. My children were hysterical, and terrified. I would not allow my toddler to play in the zoned off jet ski area, so why are dogs allowed to roam freely in the family area of the beach?

I am not averse to people walking their dogs and enjoying the freedom of the beach, but not to the detriment of families who are also trying also to enjoy themselves.

Sue Goodwin, Church Knap, Weymouth