A DOG owner is launching a fresh appeal to trace her much-loved pet after it disappeared in the summer.

Sue Stuart, 50, of Earles Street, Clayton-le-Moors, has not seen Charlie since July 21 when she opened her back gate to let her play in the field.

Sue said the four-and-a-half-year-old pitbull cross-breed's disappearance was "out of character" and believes someone may have taken her.

Sue contacted the Lancashire Telegraph in August 2006 to try to trace her pet and has received calls about possible sightings.

But to her dismay, every report she has followed has not led her to the return of her dog, who was rescued from abusive owners.

She claimed the disappearance had also affected Charlie's two-year-old puppy, Jessie, who has had to be treated for stress.

Sue said: "Jessie is pining for her mother and is making herself ill in the process.

"Charlie can open doors but she would never run away. She has never run away before.

"She is an outdoor dog, I let her out at 11am on the field at the back of the house. I fear that someone has taken her.

"Everyone loved Charlie. I just want to know that she is all right."

Anyone with information can contact Sue on 07858077454 or 07984711821.