Twickenham Police have urged dog walkers to be on their guard after reports of an attempted theft in Bushy Park.

A notice at the park gates says: "Dog thieves are operating in this area.

"On Tuesday, March 2 a man was attacked at Laurel Road Gate by two men attempting to steal his dog.

"Be on your guard."

Over the past year, reports of 'dognapping' have been on the rise as criminals look to exploit a surge in the price and popularity of pooches.

"While it is still a very rare crime, it's sadly something we have seen increasing recently," said a spokesperson for the National Police Chiefs Council.

"During the coronavirus pandemic, criminals have adjusted their activities and are taking advantage of the big demand for pets over the lockdown period.

"The cost of a puppy has considerably increased over the past year making this a lucrative market for organised criminals to exploit."

West Twickenham Police said: "A sign has been placed on the gate to Bushy Park about a recent dog theft in the area, not sure who has put the sign up.

"Due to this please go careful and have your wits about you when walking your dog wherever you are."