AN AMERICAN pit bull terrier has been seized from an address in St Albans because it is a banned breed. The owners of the 14-month-old dog, which was being kept in Cell Barnes Lane, had the option of being prosecuted or giving up the animal. Pc Dean Mason

AN AMERICAN pit bull terrier has been seized from an address in St Albans because it is a banned breed.

The owners of the 14-month-old dog, which was being kept in Cell Barnes Lane, had the option of being prosecuted or giving up the animal.

Pc Dean Mason, local Neighbourhood Watch officer for Cell Barnes and Cunningham, said: "American pit bulls are a banned breed and it is illegal to own them."

He has been working with the district council, Hightown and Praetorian and Churches Housing Association and Pc Lee Osborne who is the single point of contact for dangerous dogs in St Albans.

In September Pcs Mason and Osborne seized another American pit bull terrier from Batchwood ward in St Albans.

Pc Osborne said: "It is very unusual to have these dogs in St Albans and especially as neither of these cases were linked. It has obviously been very upsetting for the families of these dogs who have had to give up their pets - but they have been very co-operative."

He added: "If you are considering buying a dog and have any suspicions that it may be a banned breed, please contact me on 01727 796042 or email lee.osborne@herts.pnn.police.uk