THE devastated family of a beloved dog are offering a reward to find him after he went missing last Wednesday.

Murphy, a six-year-old Bernese mountain dog, was last seen in the moors above Rivington off George's Lane when his owner Dennis Weir took him for a walk on October 29.

But after becoming excitable about the sheep in a field, he ran off, pulling at the lead, and Mr Weir, aged 76, fell to the ground and hurt his head. When he came round Murphy was gone.

He was last seen wearing a black fabric plain collar with an ID disc in the shape of a kennel with contact number, his flexi lead was still attached.

Mr Weir and his wife Margaret, who has recently suffered ill health, have been left heartbroken by their loss and hope that Murphy will be returned to their home in Malvern Close, Horwich, soon.

Their daughter in law Bernadette, aged 49, said: "They are both so upset by this — they just want Murphy to be found. He is such a lovely loyal dog and would sooner lick you than bite you. He is so friendly and not aggressive at all.

"If anyone can help with the search we would be eternally grateful. We can't bear the thought of him out there on his own."

Have you seen Murphy? Call Bernadette on 07743 283844.