Detectives are re-appealing for help in tracing a missing puppy who was stolen from a breeder’s home in October.

The rare lilac British bulldog puppy, thought to be worth £16,000, was taken from a home in the Tadworth area on October 17.

Five men have been arrested, but an appeal has been launched on behalf of Sussex Police as the pup’s whereabouts are still unknown.

Officers were told that a man attended the breeder’s address having expressed an interest in buying the puppy.

However, after he was given the puppy to hold he ran out of the property, allegedly assaulting a relative of the dog breeder on his way.

Police believe the puppy may be in the Oxford area.

Detective Constable Eloise Lock, investigating officer, said: “I would like to thank the public and media for their help following the original appeal in October, after which we had numerous enquiries to investigate.

“I am now calling for the public's help again as we still need to find the puppy and return her to the rightful owner.

“Given the time elapsed since it was taken it could well have stayed at numerous premises, and may be out of the county of Surrey.

“If you have noticed any unusual behaviour by your neighbours, or anybody you know in relation to any new pets they have, we need to hear from you.

“Sometimes people feel nervous about passing on information to us for whatever reason, but you can talk to the independent charity Crimestoppers in complete anonymity by calling 0800 555 111.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Surrey Police by calling 101 or by using the online reporting facility at http://www.surrey.police.uk/ quoting the reference number 45140087824.

Two men aged 25 and three others aged 24, 26 and 27 from the Oxford area have been arrested on conspiracy to commit robbery and have been released on bail until February 19 and 20 pending further enquiries.