PUZZLED publicans David and Helena Shorrock have called out the hounds in a countrywide hunt for a fox at the centre of a kidnap drama.

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

But he went missing during a blackout caused by recent storms and the couple fear he has been kidnapped after receiving a string of taunting letters from across the country.

And they are threatening to put the culprit on trial with the threat of a public flogging with Mr Fox's tail.

And they have pleaded with Mr Fox to come home, if he is able, saying: "We miss you and promise not to tweak your tail or make you wear silly hats at Christmas any more." "Mr Fox has been part of the fixtures and fittings at the Nab's Head for over a decade. We didn't realise how much he meant to us until he went missing," said David.

"We have received taunting letters, poems and postcards from all over the country, including from Devon and Cumbria, purporting to be Mr Fox or to know his whereabouts. We are well and truly foxed.

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

"We are offering a reward of a slap-up meal and a pint or two for information leading to his recovery," David said.

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

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