Shocking footage shows a woman being dragged to the ground in a sudden dog attack while it's still attached to its lead.

The horrifying incident, caught on camera in Bolton, Gtr Manchester, unfolded shortly before 3pm on Wednesday (January 7).

It shows a dog suddenly charging at a lone pedestrian, slamming into her and knocking her to the ground.

As the woman desperately tries to get to her feet and flee, the animal lunges again and tackles her.

The attack lasts roughly a minute, before the woman manages to stand up and walk away.

Disturbing footage of the attack has been passed to the police by local councillors.

Cllr Safwaan Patel said: "We have been made aware of a dog attack on a lady in Halliwell."

"We have contacted the police to report the incident and have also shared the footage."

"We have been in touch with the family to advise them on the next steps."

A spokesman for Greater Manchester Police said: "A report was made of an out-of-control dog biting a woman on Wolfenden Street in Bolton on Wednesday, January 7."

"The victim suffered minor injuries."

"No arrests have been made and work is ongoing to locate the dog."

The breed of the dog has not yet been confirmed.

A resident, who asked to remain anonymous, said dog attacks have been an ongoing problem in the area.

He said: "I've been here for many years, but it's getting worse."

"I feel 100 per cent more unsafe in the area compared to what it used to be."

He raised concerns that the attack happened close to a school and near elderly people's homes.

He added: "It's disgusting how unsafe it is for people from the local schools and mosques."