A FAMILY have been left devastated after their beloved Shetland pony vanished while grazing on land in Quarry Bank.

The Southall family are now desperately searching for Dinky after she disappeared from land opposite their home on Thorns Road early last Thursday morning (July 30).

They fear the much-loved pony may have been stolen.

Dinky (pictured) has been described as a small, brown and white pony, who is around 16-years-old.

She belongs to 16-year-old Scarlett Southall, who was gifted Dinky by her grandfather Alfie 14 years ago, so she has been a huge part of the teen's life.

Scarlett's auntie Sylvia Lee said: "We believe she was taken between 6am and 7am on Thursday. She was on land where she was put out to graze opposite our property.

"She is well cared for and looked after. My niece is distraught."

She said Dinky’s disappearance has been reported to the police but she just wants the animal returned home safe as she is in need of urgent medical treatment.

Sylvia can be contacted on 07825 498856.