VILLAGERS have been put on the alert after a much-loved dog was stolen along with his owner’s van.

Buster, a black and white spaniel, was sitting on the front seat of the builder’s van when it was stolen from Scorton near Richmond.

The white Vauxhall Vivaro, registration number DS60 JDO, was taken from the driveway of a bungalow on the Bolton Road at around 11.30am today (May 6).

The van was parked while the owner carried out work at the premises and the door of the van had been left open to help keep Buster cool.

The vehicle also contained the owner’s tools which were taken in the theft, along with his wallet.

Police are appealing to anyone who has seen the white van, possibly with a dog in the front seat, or a loose dog matching Buster’s description, to contact them.

PC Kalinka Smith-Owen said: “I am appealing to anyone who believes they have seen the van since this morning or knows of its current whereabouts to contact the police.

“There is added urgency and distress in this case with the theft of Buster the dog who may be in need of care and attention.

“ It’s possible that Buster may have been dumped by the thieves, so I am also appealing to anyone who has seen a lone black and white spaniel in the Scorton, Richmond or surrounding areas to get in touch.”

Contact North Yorkshire Police on 101, select option one and pass information to the force control room. To remain anonymous pass information to Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.