Two years ago we featured the story of Belle, a springer spaniel who was stolen from her home in Defynnog. Her owners were devasatated and mounted a massive campaign to find her.
Campaign poster (some info removed)
They refused to give up and for two years and five days relentlessly searched for her. Their perseverance paid off and last Friday (21 December 2019) Belle was found alive and well.
Her owner, Trisha Joseph, pictured at the top of this article with Belle, posted the news on social media. Here's her story...
"OMG ,, ITS HER......SHE IS HOME......
So today, Friday 21st December 2018, my wonderful sisters Eleanor and Julie took me to get the best Christmas present yet - our girl Belle.
Belle is happy to be home, it's like she hasn't been away ??)
She was spotted for sale last night on a facebook site, and lots commented that it looked like Belle. Jimmy, the lad who advertised her, commented that she was sold. This morning Eli put a post up to find out who had bought her. My phone went crazy. I messaged Jimmy hoping that she hadn't gone yet and not in a million years did I think he would get back to me, He did almost immediately , and she hadn't gone. He had no idea that she was stolen, and was absolutely devastated. He said we were welcome to go and see her, just to find out one way or the other. He has started working full time and has no time, so had to sell her.
We arranged to meet after he finished work, so Eli drove, Julie navigated, and I sat in the back chewing my fingernails!!!!!
Up to Worcester we went. Jimmy phoned to say his boss had let him go early, so he could make sure he was there waiting for us. One look at the dog, and we all knew it was Belle.
We scanned her anyway, and showed Jimmy the paperwork. Jimmy had obviously looked after her, and she obviously cared for him, the way she was looking at him, melted my heart. He is such a lovely lad, and in a way, I was sad to be taking Belle from him. But the feeling of having her home is indescribable.
The world needs more people like Jimmy.
Thank you so so much to everyone who has shared, commented and liked right from the start 2 years and 5 days ago.
Belle was so happy to see Wyn and Holly was like a fool. Thank you all."
Fyi: Brecon: This is such a heartwarming story and it goes to show that in situations such as this people shouldn't give up. We wish Belle and her family a very Happy Christmas.
Photos courtesy Trisha Joseph
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