KIDNAPPERS have snatched a pub mascot from its North-East home and taken him back to Ireland - leaving the landlord so desperate for his return he is considering a rescue mission.

The popular 2ft musical leprechaun - named Bertie O'Murphy - was stolen from the Three Tuns, in Sadberge, near Darlington, on St Patrick's Day.

Postcards sent to the pub show that Bertie is in Ireland.

They are signed by the leprechaun, who claims to be having a "wonderful time" in Cork and at the Blarney Stone.

His captors have said he will not be returned until St Patrick's Day - March 17 - next year, and say they are considering making a ransom demand for Bertie's safe return.

But now, a month and three postcards later, Bertie's owners have appealed for his safe return and have pledged to meet any ransom demands, so he can resume his usual position next to the cigarette machine, and be reunited with the pub's three other singing leprechauns.

Sean Kelly, owner of the pub, said they have no idea who Bertie's kidnappers are.

"We really want him back, he's like part of the family," he said.

"We are really hopeful for his safe return, and it might mean making a visit to Ireland for us to bring him back, which we are willing to do.

"It has been mentioned that he may be at risk, and we would be willing to pay a ransom."

Wife Marie said it was probably some customers playing a joke.

"I'm very upset he's gone, because he was bought for us by some friends," she said.

"I'm sure he'll come back eventually, but we're quite prepared to put a reward up.

"I don't know how they managed to smuggle the statue past me, but we really want him back.

"I'm sure it's some of the lads who get in here having a laugh, and I wouldn't be surprised if they hand it round among themselves when they go on holiday.

"There have been suggestions among our locals that they might start sending bits of Bertie through the post, but we hope it won't go quite that far."