A CUDDLY toy dog was stolen from fundraisers collecting for blind people.

The dog was taken from a display in Churchill Square, Brighton, while volunteers raised money for Guide Dogs For The Blind.

While Jim Low had his back turned, someone made off with the stuffed dog.

The 51-year-old said: “I’m gutted. It only cost £35 but it’s the principle of it.

“I love Brighton because it’s a really nice, diverse society.

“I’m surprised that somebody would have done that.”

When Mr Low and his friend Steve Cunningham, 44, mentioned to a passing police officer that the dog had been stolen they checked the shopping mall’s CCTV.

Their worst fears were confirmed and Mr Low was then advised to appeal to readers of The Argus to get it back.

Mr Low, who lives in Poole, Dorset, said: “All I want is for someone to think ‘Oh, I shouldn’t have done that,’ and bring it back.

“Maybe a child took it? If they are frightened of bringing it back they should make a donation.”

The snatch took place on Tuesday, January 20, at about midday.

Mr Low has diabetes and problems with his eyes but can see properly.

No one has yet come forward and the incident has not been recorded as a crime.

Mr Low, who served as ground crew for the RAF before being injured on duty in 1991, said the dog snatch does not change how he feels about Brighton.

He said: “People are normally very generous. It’s a nice, kind city so it’s a bit of a shock. But it’s one of the nicest cities I have been to so this won’t change me.”

Despite the setback, Mr Low and Mr Cunningham managed to get 20 people to sponsor a new guide dog puppy for 24 months.