A stray dog is once again standing guard outside its owner’s Allington home after being missing, presumed stolen.

The fibreglass labrador went AWOL three weeks ago after being a fixture in a front garden in Castle Road for five years.

Worried owner John Walker called police and began a poster campaign, targeting the nearby school, library and post office.

The potents didn't look good and the offer of a reward was even considered.

But at the end of last week the mute mutt was back in its rightful place, much to the delight of its owner and passing well-wishers.

It was returned by a neighbour who found it abandone on a driveway further along Castle Road.

John, 37, said: “Within three weeks, most of Allington knew about our missing dog as word got around the post office and schools.

"Even the cleaner who does my mum’s home asked if he’d been found.

"And on Saturday, most people who walked past the garden said: "Oh, you’ve got your dog back.’”