ANIMAL lovers are being urged to be vigilant following a spate of dog thefts in villages near Droitwich.

Spa rural beat manager PC Al Birkett told the Advertiser the number of canine companions being snatched has rocketed this year.

He said Upton Warren and Broughton Green had been targeted several times, along with other villages.

PC Birkett added: "Residents must be careful when allowing pets to roam on neighbouring land.

"I urge people to note vehicle registration numbers if anyone is seen acting suspiciously."

He also called people to get their pets micro-chipped to make it easier to identify them.

if they are stolen.