PUB managers have offered to stage a wedding ceremony free of charge for a fox which went missing from their hostelry.

Mr Fox, as he is known to locals at the Nab's Head Hotel in Samlesbury, usually adorns the wall of the popular watering hole.

He disappeared in June during a blackout caused by storms and puzzled publicans David and Helena Shorrocks feared he had been kidnapped after receiving a string of taunting communiques from across the country.

But now they have received a photograph of Mr Fox with a "Miss Fox" sent from a Spanish sunshine resort.

It includes a message purporting to be from the missing reynard saying he has found a "good-looking mate" and asking the couple how they would feel about having some cubs.

They said in answer: "We would love to be grandparents. Come home Mr Fox and we'll give you a proper wedding, free of charge."

David and Helena were interviewed by CKST Radio, of Vancouver, Canada, after disc jockey David Geddes read a Lancashire Evening Telegraph story of their plight on the Internet. Pub regulars have also been leaving flowers at the scene and wearing special blue ribbons of remembrance. The couple said they were amazed by the response to the story, which had attracted postcards and letters from throughout the world.

But they are threatening court action against the culprits if Mr Fox is held against his will.

"We are not being foxed by these latest communiques. We still believe that Mr Fox is being held against his will and intend to hold a preliminary court hearing.

"We have a judge and jury lined up and, if found guilty, the culprits will be publicly flogged with Mr Fox's brush," Helena said.

Mr Fox says in his message that, since meeting his girlfriend, things have been looking up.

"I have had to take things more slowly and seriously. I may stay here for a while, as things are getting steamy.

" We are even talking about extending our family. How would you feel about some cubs?"

And Helena said, if Mr Fox had really found the girl of his dreams, he should bring her home.

"We will welcome her with open arms and even hold a marriage ceremony.

"We promise them the best wedding bash for miles around. We would love to have him back, girlfriend or not!" she said.

If you know Mr Fox's whereabouts, please contact Helena or David Shorrocks on 01254 852455.

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