A £500 reward is being offered for the safe return of a distinctively marked miniature poodle that went missing last month in Rainhill.

Devastated owners Shaun Robertson and Jude Devinewere were visiting the area where they grew-up when the three year-old black dog with distinctive ‘phantom’ white markings ran off.

“Harvey is our little boy and goes everywhere with us. He is a lovely little character, very clever and knows lots of tricks. Harvey is widely travelled and has been to 13 different countries in his camper van,” said Shaun, aged 45.

Harvey was being looked after by their friends' children in Rainhill on November 23 while we went for a night out, and he bolted when the door was opened.

Shaun, who now lives in Sheffield, added: "He was obviously in a panic and trying to find us. We are absolutely devastated. Initially we believed he might have been trying to find his way home, but there have since been lots of reported sightings including three on Sunday, December 15 which indicate he is likely to still be in the Rainhill or St Helens areas.

“We are heartbroken and desperate to have him home for Christmas. We have left no stone unturned, in the quest to bring Harvey home.

“A Facebook group "Find Harvey" with over 2,200 members and hundreds of wonderful people in the local area and further afield helping in various ways including delivering tens of thousands of leaflets.”

Harvey is described as being about knee high, midway between a toy and a standard poodle. He is neutered and microchipped and was wearing a red harness with name and our telephone numbers on a tag. If you know where Harvey is call 0776 431 8791 or 0772 424 2375.

Forty-two year-old Jude has collated film footage of Harvey and you can see him at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nz7IH7q01is