Concern for collie stolen in 4x4

A collie dog which was in the back of a pick-up truck has been taken by thieves who stole the vehicle from a farm near Shrewsbury.

The black and white dog was sitting in the back of the Nissan Navara pick-up truck, registration CP06 AHG, when it was taken yesterday between 2pm and 2.15pm at the farm in Wroxeter.

A metal twin-axle drop-sided trailer, which was attached to the truck, was also taken. Shrewsbury Police spokeswoman Maria Hawkaluk said: "The dog is still missing, as is the truck and the trailer.

"Any witnesses or anyone who may have found a dog or seen the vehicles since yesterday afternoon should contact police."

Oliver Cartwright, NFU West Midlands spokesman based at Telford, said: "Rural crime is a worry and it is costly for our members when they have farm equipment taken but the fact that an animal was in the vehicle when it was stolen is an added concern.

"I'm sure the dog's owners are desperate to get it back and the animal's welfare is obviously a real worry.

"Farmers need to ensure they are more security conscious and can take basic safety steps towards protecting their property."

Witnesses should contact police on 08457 444888.