A WOMAN was threatened at knifepoint and had her dog stolen on Wednesday.

The 35-year-old was walking her dog along Aldenham Road in Guisborough when she was approached by an unknown man who held her at knifepoint before stealing her Australian Shepherd puppy.

The dog is grey and white with no tail and was wearing a thin red lead with a metal choker type collar. The breed is similar to a Border Collie, has a shaggy coat and is approximately knee height in size.

The man is described as being around 30 or 40, medium build and wearing dark clothes and a dark peaked hat.

Police believe it is an isolated incident but are asking people to remain vigilant and to contact them with any information about the robbery. Any witnesses or anyone with information should contact Detective Constable Mark Rayner on non-emergency number 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.