A DISTRAUGHT family are appealing for help tracing their pet Staffordshire bull terrier after it was stolen from a property in Popley.

The family pet, called Saffire, was taken from the house in Pitcairn Close when the offenders entered the rear of the house between 4pm and 8pm on Saturday.

PC James Walton from Basingstoke police station said: “I am appealing for anyone with information about Saffire’s whereabouts to get in touch with us as soon as possible. The family have been left very distraught, particularly the children.”

Saffire is described as white, with a black patch on the left hand side of its head.

Anyone who has seen Saffire or has any information is urged to call 101 quoting 44160341973 or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.