A toddler has died after being attacked by a dog at her own home, Merseyside Police has said.

Officers received a report of a dog attack at an address in the Blackbrook area of St Helens at around 3.50 pm.

The 17-month-old girl was taken to hospital where she died of her injuries.

The dog was handed over to the Police at the address and has been humanely destroyed.

Forensic tests are to be carried out on the dog to establish whether it was an illegal breed under the Dangerous Dogs Act (1991).

Family 'absolutely devastated'

Detective Inspector Lisa Milligan said: "This is a tragic incident and our thoughts are with the child's family at this devastating time.

"The little girl's parents and wider family are absolutely devastated and our specialist Family Liaison Officers are providing them with support at this horrendous time.

"Whilst we are in the very early stages of the investigation into this extremely tragic incident we can confirm that the dog was only bought by the family a week ago and officers are working to identify the previous owners of the dog concerned and establish its history."

She appealed for witnesses to come forward. "If you were in the Bidston Avenue area this afternoon and witnessed anything, or have any information about the dog in question then please come forward speak to one of our officers."