A stolen dog took his rescue into his own paws this week after flagging down an RSPCA van on a deserted road over 100 miles from home.

Alfie the Yorkshire Terrier ran out of woods on Hawkswood Lane, Gerrards Cross barking at inspectors Stephanie Law’s passing vehicle.

After she opened the door and Alfie jumped in, a scan of his microchip revealed he had been reported as stolen by burglars from his home in the West Midlands town of Wednesbury.

Inspector Law said: “I have had plenty of people wave me down for help but I have never actually been flagged down by a dog in need of rescue before.

“I was just driving down the deserted road when I saw Alfie run towards me, clearly trying to attract my attention.

“He ran right in front of the van, barking, and as soon as I stopped and opened the door he just bounded in and jumped onto the seat - and looked at me. It was as if he recognised my uniform and knew I was there to rescue him.

“He's a lovely, friendly dog despite his ordeal and I am so pleased he got the happy ending he deserved.”

The seven-year old had been missing since March 21 after and another terrier Lillie were taken from their house.

Lillie, a five year-old unneutered female, is still missing.

The RSPCA believes Alfie may have been dumped in woods at the rural spot.

Alfie’s owner Kirsty Mitton, 23, said: “We are over the moon to have Alfie back - we didn’t think we would see him again, but so sad that Lillie is still missing.

“I just jumped straight in the car to drive the 112 miles as soon as I heard he was safe.

“Thank goodness we had Alfie microchipped, as there’s no way we would have been traced without that, and sadly Lillie has not been chipped so we would really appreciate anyone who might recognise her to let the RSPCA know.”

Anyone with information about Lillie’s whereabouts should call the RSPCA on 0300 123 8018.