A rescue dog which was tortured and abused by a gang of yobs has been lost after one day in the UK.

Little Billy was last seen by Blueberry Nursery off Davigdor Road, Hove.

The poor dog was rescued by Action Aid for Animals in Hungary from a gang of youths who tied him up and kicked, punched, and hit him with pieces of wood and bricks.

Billy was provided with vet care while he went through a quarantine period and was vaccinated and last week it was arranged for Billy to come to the UK after a permanent home was found for him.

He was to stay at an emergency foster home in Hove for one night before being taken to his permanent home in Stoke on Trent.

But shortly before he was due to be collected he slipped his lead and escaped into Hove, by Blueberry Nursery off Davigdor Road.

Kendra Pinder, of Action Aid for Animals, said: “This would have been the first time this poor little dog would ever have had such a chance.

“The foster carer took him for a walk 30 minutes before he was due to be collected by our animal ambulance and driven to Staffordshire.

“When crossing the road Billy slipped his collar and ran off. He did not know the foster carer, has no idea of the area.

“This poor little dog saved from a life of cruelty and starvation is now alone and extremely scared.

“Our charity is asking if anyone has picked him up, found him and handed into a vets or seen him around to please contact us as soon as possible.”

If you have seen Billy call 01782 816066 or go online www.actionaidforanimals.com