Three prize-winning pugs were reported stolen from an elderly man who has judged dog competitions worldwide in Westry on Sunday (December 17).

Pensioner Michael Quinney, 80, of Wisbech road, contacted police after three of his pug puppies; Pricilla, Bridget and Flash, went missing from his heated outbuilding at some point during the night.

Mr Quinney, who has awarded more pug championships than anyone else in the country, said: “I’ve had them all my life, since I was 12. They’ve been all over the world with me and have won many prizes.”

“Never, never have I had anything like this happen, and I didn’t hear a thing, he added.”

“The whole thing has unnerved me – to think whoever took them could have actually been in the house.”

One of the pugs has been found and has now been returned to Mr Quinney, who is said to be “devastated” by the ordeal.

The dogs are described as two black bitches and a black bitch with a white chest.

Investigations are ongoing and anybody with information regarding this incident should call police on 101 quoting CF0728901217 or visit www.cambs.police.uk/report.

Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111 or via www.crimestoppers-uk.org.