A NORTH Yorkshire wom-an, who believes her much- loved pet was snatched from a busy seaside resort over the Easter weekend, is appealing for help.

Twelve-year-old Emma Foster was playing on the beach at Whitby with the five-year-old Beagle, called Oscar, when the dog ran off and disappeared near the Duke of York pub.

Emma's grandmother, Janice Metcalfe, who owns the dog, said she was desperate to find out what happened to the dog.

She said she received an anonymous phone call from someone telling her the dog had been spotted with a large group of people, but the woman caller would give no more information.

Mrs Metcalfe said Oscar, a stocky dog with white and brown patches, did have a collar and some identification, but this has probably been removed by someone who has taken the dog.

Although Mrs Metcalfe, who runs the Pier Inn boarding house in Whitby, said she has reported the missing dog to Whitby police, she believes there is little they can do about it and has put up a cash reward for the safe return of her pet.

"We are absolutely heartbroken and my grand-daughter is totally gutted and feels responsible," said Mrs Metcalfe.

" I just want him back and I will pay to have him returned. We will travel the length of the country to get out pet back."

Anyone with information can call Mrs Metcalfe on (01947) 605284.