A woman needed 30 stitches and plastic surgery after she was savagely attacked by an out-of-control dog.

Owner Darren Hayward was in another room when his bullmastiff injured two visitors at his home in Pitseaville Grove, Pitsea.

Hayward admitted at Basildon Crown Court two counts of being in charge of a dog which was dangerously out of control.

One victim, Martine Buchan, was severely injured, while another, Emma Page, was bitten below the knuckle.

Mike Warren, representing Hayward, said: “He had invited back some friends he had met, these two ladies.

“Both parties were intoxicated.

“Mr Hayward was in the kitchen at the time and was not a witness.

“Miss Buchan was injured more seriously and spoke of needing 30 stitches and plastic surgery.”

The incidents took place in the early hours of July 13 last year.

The bullmastiff is normally kept in an enclosed area. Mr Warren said he had spoken to a behavioural expert, who suggested the dog may have been inadvertently provoked, causing it to attack the women.

The dog does not have a history of violent behaviour, the court was told.

The Crown Prosecution Service is seeking an order for the dog’s destruction. The court heard Hayward, 42, has a 15-year-old daughter and is a single parent after he lost his wife five years ago.

Judge Jonathan Black said: “These are serious offences and the injuries to one of the complainants were severe. The court will have to consider all sentencing options.”

Hayward was given unconditional bail for sentencing at Basildon Crown Court in March.