A dog who survived being run over by a train after apparently getting caught up in the riots two weeks ago is set to be re-homed in Sussex.

The Staffordshire bull terrier was hiding in the tunnel near Dalston Kingsland Station on Tuesday, August 9, but had a lucky escape when he managed to cower low enough on the tracks to avoid injury when a London Overground train pulled in over the top of him.

The driver, Emily Malcher, called Hackney’s animal warden and the traumatised pooch was treated for shock and minor cuts at Abbey Veterinary Clinic, in Dalston Lane.

Although the dog was micro-chipped – staff laughed when they found out his name was “Lucky” – the contact information was outdated and despite appeals in the press, the owner did not come forward.

Veterinary nurse Rachel Leech said she believed the animal may have been taken out on the streets as a “weapon” during the riots the night before he was found.

Lucky stayed with a foster carer for several days to recuperate and is now in an animal shelter in Sussex.

Hackney’s animal warden did not want to reveal the name of the shelter in order to avoid the centre being inundated with calls from would-be adopters, but he said: “Lucky is a nice, affectionate dog, and I’m sure he will be adopted within the next couple of weeks.”