A five-year-old girl was used as an accomplice in the theft of a tiny puppy.

The owner of Peter's Pets in Rayners Lane is offering a substantial reward to for the recovery of the 10-week-old Jack Russell terrier which was stolen on Tuesday last week.

The child accompanied three men to the pet shop, in Alexandra Avenue, and the group asked to see the puppies, which were kept in a room in the back of the store.

One of the men, then distracted the owner by purchasing a goldfish, while one of his accomplices took the puppy, which is worth £125, and hid it under his coat.

It is the first time store owner Maurice Smith had ever known a theft from the shop.

"We were dumbfounded because they did it under our noses," he said.

"We are very concerned about the welfare of the puppy and we are offering a substantial reward for anyone who gives us information which will lead to its recovery.

"It is a very young puppy and needs careful care and attention."

Anyone who can help should phone the shop on 0181 866 5622

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