POLICE are appealing for the public’s help in searching for a dog believed to be stolen from outside her owner’s house.

Officers believe the little Jack Russell, named Patch, may have been stolen from Great Busby, near Stokesley.

They say a white van pulled up outside the property at about 3pm on Monday, April 21 and Patch has not been seen since.

Officers are appealing to anyone who witnessed Patch being taken, or who saw a white van acting suspiciously in the area to get in touch.

PC Martin Willoughby, of Stokesley police, said: “Obviously Patch’s owner is distraught that she is missing and is anxious to get her back as soon as possible.

“We believe that Patch may have been stolen and I am urging anyone with information that can help the investigation to get in touch with the police or Crimestoppers.”

Anyone who can help officers to locate Patch is urged to contact North Yorkshire Police on 101 and ask for PC Martin Willoughby or Stokesley police.

Alternatively, information can be emailed to; martin.willoughby@northyorkshire.pnn.police.uk Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111, quoting reference number; 12140064844.