The number of dog attacks in Redbridge has reached record levels with the RSPCA blaming the increase on the spread of organised fighting rings.

Incidents of dog fighting have risen more than ten-fold in the borough since 2004 - the fourth highest increase in London.

Two-thirds of reported of dogs fights are linked to young people using them as weapons, according to the RSPCA.

Superintendent Julia Penury from the Metropolitan Police, said: "We are very concerned about the rise of dog fighting and dogs used in anti-social behaviour reported by the RSPCA.

"All dogs, especially certain breeds, need to be properly managed so they do not become aggressive.

"Owners have a responsibility to keep their dogs under control: the maximum penalty for allowing a dog you are in charge of to be dangerously out of control is two year's imprisonment, a fine, or both.

"Where we have information that a dog is a banned breed, police may seize it and as a result you could be subject to a large fine or even go to prison.

A man was arrested and his dog seized in February after an elderly woman was attacked by the animal in Woodford Bridge.

And the Guardian reported in January last year how a nine-week-old bull terrier puppy was found dead by workmen with his ears and tail cut off in Neville Close, Wanstead.

An adult male dog of a similar breed was found at the same time in nearby Sheridan Road which a post mortem showed had died of starvation.

RSPCA inspector Dawn Avery blamed "hoodie gangs" who use the dogs for status symbols, intimidation and fighting.

She said: "These dogs have clearly been neglected and then dumped. It is appalling that people think it is acceptable to treat dogs in this way.

"It is an offence to abandon dogs and people need to realise this and that they will be prosecuted if they do so."

There were six dog attacks reported in Redbridge last year, compared to just three the year before and none in 2005.

Visit rspca.org.uk for more information.