A DOG owner has renewed his appeal for the return of his pets.

Lunar and Zimba, Alaskan malamutes, went missing from a compound in Middleton St George, near Darlington, last week.

Their owner, Tom Coates, has offered a substantial reward for information leading to the return of the two dogs, which each weigh nine stones.

The dogs disappeared from the compound of RAH Transport, in Killinghall Row.

Mr Coates said: "I am heartbroken because they are like my children. They have been missing for a week now and I think they have been stolen," he said.

Darlington police have not ruled out the possibility that the dogs were stolen. Anyone with information is asked to contact them on (01325) 467681.