Thieves stole a woman's dog in Woodville after allegedly tripping her up and threatening her before making off with the pet.

The incident happened yesterday evening (Sunday) on Moira Road, close to the New Inn pub.

They got away with the woman's two-year old Miniature Dachshund called Minnie.

Derbyshire Police have now issued an appeal for information about the two men involved in the theft.

A spokesman said: "Officers are appealing for help finding a stolen Dachshund.

"The force received a call just after 8.20pm yesterday (Sunday 11 April) to a report of a dog which had been stolen in Woodville.

"The victim was walking along Moira Road, near the New Inn pub, when she was approached by two men, who allegedly tripped her over, threatened her and stole her dog, a two-year-old Miniature Dachshund (sausage dog) named Minnie.

"The men left the scene in a black Ford Mondeo (registration beginning YG60), along Moira Road in the direction of Albert Village.

"Both men are described as being aged in their 30s, with one of the men being white, of a stocky build and with short fair hair.

"Enquiries are ongoing and we would urge anyone who was in the area at the time and noticed anything suspicious, or with any information on the whereabouts of the dog, to contact us on the details below.

"Also of interest to detectives are any drivers who were in the Asda filling station in Burton Road, Woodville between 8.10pm and 8.15pm where it is believed the car was shortly before the incident."

Inspector Chris Thornhill, who leads the policing in south Derbyshire, said: "Incidents such as this are, thankfully, very rare in Derbyshire.

"However, I am very aware of the impact that these crimes have on victims and how worried fellow dog owners will be hearing this news.

"Patrols have been stepped up in the area and you may see an increased police presence in the coming days. I would urge anyone with information, or concerns, to speak to them."

You can quote reference 21*198495 in any correspondence or contact via:

• Facebook– send a private message to /DerbyshireConstabulary
• Twitter– direct message our contact centre on @DerPolContact
• Website– complete the online contact form derbyshire.police.uk/Contact-Us.
• Phone – call us on 101.
• You can also anonymously contact the independent charity Crimestoppers, on 0800 555 111 or by visiting www.crimestoppers-uk.org.