A WORLD-CLASS dog breeder is devastated after finding three of his puppies had been stolen – one of which he was boarding for a friend.

Last Thursday (July 11), three Araki Tibetan terriers were stolen from Strawberryhill in Newent which is the top Tibetan terrier kennel in the history of the breed in the UK.

Ken Sinclair, who has been breeding at the kennels for more than 40 years, said that this has never happened before and he is devastated.

"I'm guessing that it happened at 5.45am on Thursday morning as it would have been light by then and I wouldn't have seen the security light come on, and I am usually awake by around 6am.

"I am absolutely devastated, who ever stole the puppies won't get much for them as they don't have the paperwork – they will be lucky if they get £100 each for them. With the paperwork they are worth at least £500.

"It's not the money I am worried about it's the safety of the dogs as each one has different personalities and could fight if they are locked up together.

"What is very strange is that dog medicine and a box of syringes had also been taken and I can't think what use anyone would have for them."

Mr Sinclair breeds up to 20 dogs of which he shows at prestigious dog shows such as Crufts.

Two six-month-old gold and white bitches were stolen as well as his friend's 12-month-old black and white bitch, which has shorthair.

"My friend is heartbroken and I feel awful that this has happened while they have been away on holiday and they have left their dog in my care.

"If anybody has any information I would be extremely grateful I am happy to give a reward following the safe return of the dogs," he added.

A spokesman for Gloucestershire Police said: "An offender came into the rear of the garden and opened an unsecure kennel shed and stole three valuable Tibetan terriers. The incident happened between 9.45pm on Wednesday, July 10 and 7.55am on Thursday, July 11."

Anyone with information can either call Ken on 01531 822384 or 101, quoting incident 110 of July 11.