POLICE investigating the theft of a French bulldog from a garden in Bradninch last month have located the dog, and her litter of eight puppies, at an address in Manchester.

The pregnant two-year-old dog was reportedly taken from an address in the village on Thursday, May 13.

Maggie and her new litter have been assessed as being in a healthy condition by a vet and are due to be reunited with their owner.

A 24-year-old woman and a 29-year-old man, both from Bradninch, have been arrested on suspicion of theft and bailed until June 29, pending further enquiries.

Following the discovery of the dog, a 34-year-old man from Manchester has also been arrested on suspicion of theft and bailed until July 9, pending further enquiries.

A 28-year-old woman from Manchester has been arrested for handling stolen goods and released under investigation pending further enquiries.