AN appeal has gone out across Thurrock, with particular urgency to people in Tilbury as a search is mounted for a dog that was stolen and then dumped.

Ajax was taken on Friday (19 February) from the garden of his home on Grange Road, Grays.

At around 2am in the early hours of Saturday it is believed the dog was dumped in Tilbury and ran off.

The theft was captured on CCTV but the footage is not available to use because of the age of the suspected thieves. Police have the footage.

Lost animal charity Pippa's Army are supporting the search and member Sue Garrad, has been told the pet was seen in Tilbury and she is hoping residents there will join in the search. A reward is being offered.

Tracey Ann, who runs Prim and Proper Pooches grooming on St Chad's Road in Tilbury is also helping co-ordinate the efforts to find the do and says: "If anyone has Ajax in Tilbury and wants to return him without anyone knowing then please feel free to bring him to the grooming shop on st chads road with no questions asked!

"We will make sure he is returned to his owner. We are open Tuesday and Thursday this coming week.

Anyone who has any information is asked to call 07453259259. A special Facebook page has also been set up and information can also be shared there.