A PAIR of 12-week-old puppies that were snatched from a village on the edge of Gloucestershire have been returned safe and well after the family paid a reward.

The two male Collie-cross puppies called Neo and Thornton were stolen from a kennel in the garden of a property in Long Green, Forthampton, last Thursday.

The small dogs were returned to their owners yesterday after a cross-border police investigation and social media appeal were launched.

The owners have thanked all those who helped spread the appeal.

The family posted on Facebook: “Just an update to all we are delighted to say we have Neo and Thornton back. They are dirty and scared but otherwise in good health.

“We are overwhelmed with everyone's support who shared our post, if it wasn't for you they would have been sold on.

“I want all to be aware that this happens to often and the scum who stole them and brought them back were just after the reward.”