A PETRIFIED pooch found quivering in the back of a stolen car in the early hours of this morning (Tuesday October 12) is a major lead in the hunt for the thieves.

The mastiff-staff cross has been the subject of some ‘ruff’ justice, when it was abandoned in a white BMW, following a police chase in Harold Hill.

The BMW and a black Mazda were taken from the same house in Slewins Lane, in Hornchurch, between 11.30pm on Monday and 4.30am today.

The BMW was later spotted by a passing patrol car, but the three suspects managed to escape - leaving behind the dog.

A police spokesman said: “This dog does not belong to the owner of the vehicle and it is not known if it is itself the proceeds of a criminal activity - or owned by one of the suspects.”

The dog - nicknamed Bullseye by officers, after criminal Bill Sike’s dog in Charles Dickens’ Oliver Twist - was held at Romford Police Station, in Main Road, Romford, and later transferred to a central London facility.

If you recognise the dog, or witnessed the incident contact DC Tara Wilson on: 0300 123 1212.

Alternatively you can call crime stoppers on: 0300 555111.