Police are appealing for help in tracing a dog stolen from outside an Oxford supermarket.

The black lurcher was stolen from outside Sainsbury’s in Heyford Hill, at about 6pm on Saturday, September 19.

Sgt Gordon Kille said: “The dog has distinctive white marks down his front and on his feet. Were you shopping last Saturday at Heyford Hill? Did you see anyone taking a dog matching this description?

“Obviously the owners are extremely upset by what has happened as they think of the dog as a member of their family.”

Anyone with information that could assist police enquiries is urged to contact Sgt Kille via Thames Valley Police Enquiry Centre on 0845 8 505 505. If you don’t want to speak to police and don’t want to leave your name contact the Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111.