A TORTOISE which went missing in October has turned up- in its owner's garden.

The creature was believed to have been stolen when it disappeared from a house in Bowleaze Coveway last year.

Tucker, a female tortoise thought to be 60 to 70 years old and worth around £300, disappeared from a greenhouse on October 18.

Police appealed for witnesses in a bid to find her. 

But it turns out that Tucker went underground in her owner's garden to hibernate during the winter months.

A police spokesperson added: "It is believed Tucker may have gone underground into hibernation and has reappeared ready for the warmer weather.

“The owner of the tortoise would like to thank officers from Dorset Police and members of the public for all their help.”

Are you Tucker's owner? Call the newsdesk on 01305 830999 or email us