A FAMILY has been searching day and night for their beloved golden cocker spaniel who has been missing for over a week.

Kevin Dawson and Sarah Clement-Dawson left Fern in boarding kennels at Middleton Tyas, near Scotch Corner, on Friday, August 22 but on Sunday evening they were told she had slipped her lead that afternoon and gone missing.

There have been sightings of the eight-year-old dog in the Barton area and even back at the kennels, but she is still missing.

The couple, from Killerby, near Darlington, and their family have been searching day and even through the night for their dog, who is microchipped.

They have put up posters in all the surrounding villages close to Barton and Middleton Tyas and informed local vets, farmers, game keepers, residents, councillors, dog wardens and police.

Mrs Clement-Dawson said Fern had been spotted on Monday close to where the family used to live in Barton.

She said: "There were further sightings over the next couple of days around Barton and towards Middleton Tyas and Newton Morrell.

"All who sighted her said she was scared and bolted away.

"We have laid scent trails around Barton and put food out where she was seen. There have been no sightings since Wednesday at midnight.

"It has been suggested she could be trying to get home to Killerby or my parents' house at Manfield. Fields in those directions have also been searched.

"We would like to thank everyone who is helping in the search for our beloved Fern.

"We are offering a reward for any information leading to her safe return."

Anyone with information can contact Sarah on 07975-594306 or email sarah.clement-dawson@live.co.uk