Seven stolen puppies reunited with owners

Seven stolen puppies have been reunited with their owners after being snatched by a gang in Doncaster four months ago.

The pups, who are all a cross between a poodle and Bichon Frise, were taken from a pen they were in with their mother on May 28.

But the culprits were arrested after police published cute snaps of the dogs, a mix of three black girls, one black boy, one brown girl and two caramel coloured boys.

Richard Thomas, 27, of Doncaster admitted burglary at Sheffield Crown Court while Kerry Scase, 29, of Elmsall and Tonya Newton, 25, of Arksey, each pleaded guilty to handling stolen goods.

The trio will be sentenced on November 25.

Detective Constable Andy Hotchkiss of South Yorkshire Police said: "All seven of the puppies recovered well from their ordeal, as there were concerns at the time for their wellbeing as they were too young to be away from their mother.

"The owners of the puppies suffered unnecessary distress and heartache when they were stolen. I am pleased all three have pleaded guilty and have taken responsibility for their actions."

Owner Franchesca Knapton appealed for help to find the pups in May, after they were stolen.

She told the Sheffield Star at the time: "Their mum Meg just keeps crying. We are desperate for them back."