POLICE are seeking three raiders who broke into an animal sanctuary and stole a distinctive African grey parrot.

A reward has been offered for the return of the caged bird, which belongs to Leigh Animal Sanctuary manager, Linda Clements.

It was wheeled into a van, still on its stand, after the trio forced their way into the office in Grave Oak Lane at 6am on Friday.

Staff at the haven are devastated by the loss of five-year-old Susie, which has a deformed right leg and barks, mews, talks and makes sounds like a ringing telephone.

Employee Jessica Taylor said: "We are all saddened by the theft and hope someone can help us get her back.

"She was raised by a local breeder and given to Linda because of the deformity. It's really awful here without her."

A police spokesman said: "The parrot is very distinctive and we urge anyone who knows of its whereabouts to get in touch."

It is described as approximately 20 inches tall with a grey body, red tail feathers, white around the eyes, a black beak and a deformed right leg.

If anyone is offered a parrot matching this description or thinks they have seen it should contact Leigh police on 0161 856 7229 or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.