A ferret owner is appealing for the return of four animals stolen from their hutch.

One albino ferret managed to escape from the raiders on the night of August 14, when they broke into a back garden in Boyton Court Road, Sutton Valence.

Owner Gary Hanson, a locksmith and part-time gamekeeper, was surprised when the animal returned cold and hungry 16 hours after the break-in.

Mr Hanson said being stolen would have been a harrowing experience for the four-month-old siblings.

He said: “When I found him he was very aggressive.”

Although the thieves stole valuable handling equipment, Mr Hanson is more keen to see the return of his animals.

“They’re only worth about £10 each," he said. “It’s sentimental as well; they’re just my ferrets - they’ve all got their own personality.”

Anyone with information is asked to call Maidstone Police on 01622 690055 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.