POLICE are hunting for thieves who stole a van from outside an animal shelter -- which had a dog inside.

Staff at Bolton Animal Shelter are appealing for the return of 10-year-old Staffordshire bull terrier Nancy, who desperately needs veterinary attention.

They were unloading animals from the white Transit van at 4pm on Thursday at the shelter in Northholt Drive, Great Lever, when the van was stolen. They believe the thieves did not realise Nancy was in the back of the van. She suffers from a chest infection and pneumonia and needs urgent care.

Karen Rickards, of the animal shelter, said: "The most important thing is the safe return of Nancy. She is desperately ill and we are really concerned for her health and well-being."

Anyone with information should contact the police on 0161 872 5050, Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111, or Karen at the animal shelter on 01204 526486.