SHOPLIFTERS have stolen an eight-week-old kitten from a North-East pet store.

The shop's owner has appealed for the return of the kitten because he is concerned that the thieves will not be able to look after it.

"We are really worried about the kitten's well being," said Adrian Roberts, the owner of Forever Pets, Darlington. "The theft hasn't cost us much, but stealing an animal is a ridiculous thing to do.

"If the thieves can't afford to buy the kitten, how can they look after it properly and pay for its food and medical care.

"A lot of care goes into looking after a kitten - I'm worried that these people will get bored with it and chuck it out." Mr Roberts, 49, opened the store in Royal Oak Yard, off Bondgate, four months ago.

The shop has regularly been targeted by shoplifters - only six week's ago thieves stole a staff member's purse from behind the counter.

The ginger and white kitten was one of a litter of four, and was for sale for £60.

"We do get hassle from kids trying to play around with the animals from time to time, but this is far worse," said Mr Roberts, who owns another pet shop at Chester-le-Street.

"I recognised the people whole stole it. It was a young girl and two lads, aged about 19 or 20.

"I'm really worried about what will happen to this kitten."

Anyone with information is asked to call Darlington police on 0845-60-60-365.