A REWARD is being offered to catch thieves who stole a youngster's pet hens and chickens.

Adam Thompson, four, kept four chicks and five hens in a shed at Sacriston Allotments, Woodside, Sacriston, but they have been stolen along with scores of pigeons from neighbouring plots.

Now his mother, Helen Thompson, is offering a £500 reward for information leading to the thieves' conviction and £200 for the birds' return.

The raid happened overnight on Tuesday and has left the youngster upset.

"During the summer Adam would go up there and have a picnic," she said.

"I can't understand why they have taken them. Adam is very upset. Last night, he kept waking up asking of they had returned.''

The four chicks are the rare breed Cream Legbars, which have distinctive tufts on the head, the rest are Bluebells and Adam's favourite, a White Sussex he called Rainbow.

Police can be contacted on 0191-388 4311 and Mrs Thompson on 0191-371 9425.