A DISTRAUGHT family are offering a reward for the safe return of their beloved pedigree golden Labrador.

Gracie was last seen at the family’s home in Anglesey Place, Great Barton, near Bury St Edmunds, on the morning of September 10.

Police are now investigating the theft of the female dog from the garden between 9.50 and 10am, with a police spokeswoman adding how fence panels had been disturbed to gain entry.

Owner Andrew Dolby, 55, said: “She is a very important part of the family. My wife died about two-and-a-half years ago to cancer and we got her soon after that and she helped us through our grief really.

“That’s how important she is to us really. She’s brought some happiness into the house.”

The father-of-four, who is the managing director of a company that builds pipe organ parts, said Gracie, who has a pink nose, was a friendly dog who would approach anyone, often visiting the neighbours, but would always come back.

“On this particular instance it was like three minutes and she was gone and I could not find her anywhere,” he said.

His son Michael, a university student, said just before Gracie was taken they had called the vets to get her microchipped.

He added how the pedigree had not yet been spayed so would have been perfect for someone looking to steal her.

The 21-year-old said the theft of the dog was “horrible”. “The worst thing is not knowing what’s happened, how she’s being treated, that sort of thing.”

The family have put up about 60 to 80 posters in their appeal to trace Gracie, offering a cash reward. There is also a Facebook page called Find Gracie Dolby, which is supported by more than 200 people, and she is also on the Dog Lost website. Michael said: “We really just want her back and would be willing to do anything to get her back.”

If anyone can help, telephone 01284 788110 or 07772 533951, or telephone Sgt Kevin Jay, of the St Edmundsbury Rural North Safer Neighbourhood Team, on 01284 774100 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

mariam.ghaemi@eadt.co.uk