A MOTHER is appealing for help to trace her son's dog, which ran off after their home was burgled.

Sandra Keith says the disappearance of four-year-old Max, a Staffordshire bull terrier cross, has left her 14-year-old son, Christopher, heartbroken.

The thieves broke into her home, in Shildon Street, Darlington, early on Saturday.

They stole a Sony PlayStation and games.

Max, who was not wearing a collar, is medium-sized and mostly red, with a black patch on top of his head.

Mrs Keith is asking for anyone who thinks they might have seen Max, or might know of his whereabouts, to contact her on (01325) 267132, or police on (01325) 467681.