The grieving son of a London great-grandmother who was mauled to death by two suspected unregistered XL Bullies has paid tribute.
Esther Martin, 68, from Woodford Green, was attacked at a property in Jaywick, near Clacton, Essex while looking after her 11-year-old grandson.
Police were called after 4pm on Saturday and Ms Martin was pronounced dead at the scene.
On Monday, Her son Paul Martin posted on Facebook: “Love you lots mum. Sleep tight and give Clare Louise a big hug from me love you both lots.
“Until we meet again. Your memory will live forever.”
Reports are saying the dogs involved are believed to have been XL Bullies, a breed it is now a criminal offence to own, but the Metropolitan Police has not yet confirmed this.
Ms Martin, a retired Tesco worker, was left alone indoors with two adults called Beauty and Bear and six puppies.
Neighbours described hearing “horrific” screams lasting 10 minutes.
Her grandson managed to get out and get help, bringing back nearby residents who were armed with spades.
But the attack only ended when six police officers entered the property and shot the animals dead.
A 39-year-old man known to Mrs Martin was arrested on Sunday night on suspicion of dangerous dog offences.
In an update on Monday morning, police said the man had been released on conditional bail until March 5.
Chief Superintendent Glen Pavelin said: “I know there is speculation about the breed of the dogs involved and we are working with experts to establish this.
“I would ask you not to speculate, we will establish the facts and we will keep the community of Jaywick updated.”
