A STOLEN Australian cockatoo has been reunited with its owners at a pet store in Stockton.

Rosie the Cockatoo was stolen on Sunday evening and had seemingly vanished without a trace.

But she was recognised by a woman who had bought the bird in good faith and who contacted police.

Rosie was stolen during a burglary at Pet Mania on Portrack Lane at about 6.45pm on Sunday.

Garry Lockey, aged 44, who works at the pet shop, said: “We are delighted and overwhelmed to have Rosie back with us beside the tills, mingling with the customers.

“We have received lots of messages of support and we would like to thank those people who sent them and also thank the woman for contacting police to reunite Rosie with the team.”

Three men, aged 33, 34 and 36 were arrested in connection with the alleged incident and all have been released under investigation while inquiries continue.

Anyone with information regarding the burglary is asked to contact Detective Constable Craig Douglas on the non-emergency number 101, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or www.crimestoppers-uk.org.