Appeal for sightings of pet dog lost in cave

The search is on for a missing family pet in caves in Sutherland where the remains of the only known polar bear in Britain were found.

Ten people searched fruitlessly yesterday in and around Assynt's Bone Caves for the dog that went missing in the area a week ago.

The owners of spaniel, Nancy, have been looking for her with help from others since she ran off on January 4.

Owners Ron and Kirsteen Faulkner from Howgate near Edinburgh had been holidaying near the Bone Caves.

Nancywas seen in a glen between the caves and Inchnadamph and barking may have been heard from the caves.

Nancy ran off with her sister Josie, who was found shortly afterwards.

Retired Mr Faulkner said: “We went back to the caves, but have not heard barking.

“She was spotted in a glen so our hope is that she has not fallen down a hole."

Mrs Faulkner, also retired, added: "Nancy was excited chasing deer and ran off. She is a strong wee dog and we have not given up hope. She was spotted the next day."

The couple have appealed for sightings.

The Bone Caves are popular with hillwalkers and scientists because of the discoveries made at the site in the past of prehistoric remains of animals, including bears, and humans.

Nancy the missing dog