A couple are appealing for help after thieves stole their car - with their two pet dogs inside.

Richard and Berenice Christian left Benjy and Margie in the back of the car at their farmhouse while they popped inside for a few minutes.

When they returned, their dark blue Mitsubishi Shogun had gone - along with their pets.

Neighbours saw the vehicle, followed by another car - possibly a Renault - being driven down the mile-long lane from the farm house in Kent Street, Cowfold, near Horsham. The driver appeared to be wearing a balaclava.

The Christians' daughter Clare, 29, who is due to give birth in two weeks, said it was like losing members of the family.

She drove down from her home in London immediately she heard the news.

Clare said: "My mum is distraught. She loves the dogs and I don't think anything could be worse than this for her, other than losing me or my dad.

"They are a country couple and live on a farm. The dogs are very much a part of their life there.

"Benjy came from a rescue centre and he's been a part of the family for nine years. We haven't had Margie long - she's only six months old.

"If somebody told us they had been run over it would be upsetting, but at least we would know what had happened to them. They could be anywhere. Mum is going over and over it in her mind."

Clare appealed to the thieves' consciences. She said: "We don't care what happens to the car but please bring back our pets."

The family wants to hear from anyone who knows about the missing dogs and has offered a reward for information leading to their safe return.

Clare said: "Please help us find Benjy and Margie. They might find their way back, but it depends on how far they have been taken."

The thieves struck at 11am on Wednesday.

Benjy, aged 13, has a dark brown coat with light brown markings on his feet. He is going grey round his muzzle and his left ear is torn. Margie is a young black Labrador puppy.

The registration number of the stolen Shogun is S782 BWV. Anyone who can help should call the police on 0845 6070999.