Newcastle bar Colonel Porter's appeal for safe return of Herbert the stuffed bear

Credit - NCJMEDIA SYNDICATION
Herbert the bear was stolen from Colonel Porter's Emporium on Dean Street on Saturday (12 February). Credit: NCJMEDIA Syndication

A Newcastle bar is appealing for the safe return of Herbert, a stuffed brown bear, after he was stolen by customers on Saturday night (12 February).

Colonel Porter's Emporium, in Dean Street, say that Herbert - named in honour of Colonel James Herbert Porter, who created Newcastle Brown Ale - is one of the bar's most popular "exhibits".

Bar staff described the bear as "a stalwart at the pub since it opened its doors and a great talking point".

The owners of Colonel Porter's Emporium said: “Herbert is one of the many attractions at Colonel Porter’s and he’s been with us since day one.

“So we are really keen to get him back. We’re sure whoever has taken him has only done it as a bit of fun so we would appeal to them to let him come home.”

Now, CCTV footage from Colonel Porter's has emerged showing two men carrying Herbert towards the Quayside.

The bar has offered the pair the chance to return the taxidermy bear "with no questions asked," and without police involvement.Colonel Porter's adds: "Anyone who knows the whereabouts of the bear can contact Col Porter’s on 0191 261 7600 or can return it to the bar, with no questions asked."