The owner of a dog that died after an alleged incident involving a Royal Mail worker in Aylesbury has spoken of her devastation, saying the loss has left her family heartbroken.

Eve Lewis, 40, said her 11-year-old pet Ethel died after suffering injuries during an incident in the Kingsbrook area of the town on Saturday, July 11.

The incident has attracted national attention after footage was shared widely on social media.

Royal Mail has since launched a full investigation and apologised to the family.

Speaking to The Sun, Ms Lewis described the moment she says Ethel was kicked.

She said: "He didn't even just kick her, he toe punted her like she was a football.

"She flew up in the air and hit the ground and rolled three times.

“She went flying like she was a football.

"The thing is, the driver was walking away and still made the effort to turn around and kick her."

Ethel was described online as a partially blind dog who had been a much-loved member of the family.

Ms Lewis said the days following the incident have been extremely difficult, with the absence of the pet being felt throughout the family home.

She said: "I just don't want this to happen to anyone else.

“I'm heartbroken and angry.”

The incident has prompted a wave of support for the family on social media, with many local residents expressing their condolences and sharing tributes to Ethel.

Royal Mail said it was taking the matter extremely seriously and had contacted the family directly.

A spokesperson said: "We are deeply sorry for this distressing incident, and we know how upsetting it is for the family.

"We are treating this matter very seriously. We have seen the footage and launched a full investigation to establish the circumstances.

"We have also confirmed to the family that we will cover the veterinary costs."

The postal operator added that animal welfare is a priority and that appropriate action will be taken once its enquiries have concluded.

Thames Valley Police confirmed officers were made aware of a criminal damage and animal welfare incident at an address in Kingsbrook at around 10.45am on July 11.

The force said the dog later died from its injuries.

Police also confirmed that an assault and racially aggravated incident involving a man in his 50s was reported in the Broughton area at around 11.30am on the same day and is believed to be connected to the original investigation.

At the time of writing, no arrests have been made.

Enquiries by Thames Valley Police and Royal Mail remain ongoing, with investigators continuing to establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident.