Kennel owners are appealing for the public’s help to trace a stolen litter of pedigree puppies.

Burglars struck at kennels in Cock Clarks taking three male and three female eight-week-old German Shepherd puppies.

The puppies had not yet been microchipped or vaccinated.

The outdoor kennel was broken into sometime between 10.30pm last night and 7am today.

An Essex Police spokesman said: “Police are investigating."

Anyone with any information is asked to call Sgt Paul Austin of Maldon police on 101.