FOLLOWING reports of a puppy theft, a large police presence was seen in the Osborne Park, Town Quay and Brunel areas of Newton Abbot on Friday evening.

One person was informed by a PCSO that they were looking for a white male with a beard and top knot, who was carrying a black puppy under his jacket.

Our witness tells us he saw a man matching this description near Osborne Park at 7.30pm that night and called 999. Within three minutes police returned to the scene.

A Devon and Cornwall spokesperson said officers were called at 6.40pm on Friday, August 5 following reports of a puppy having been taken from its owner.

It was reported that a man and woman had taken the dog and left in a vehicle, which was located by officers following a search of the area.

A 23-year-old woman was arrested on suspicion of theft. She received a police caution in relation to this matter.

A man in his 30s was also spoken to by police at the scene.

The puppy was located safely and returned to its owner.