SHE had missing for nearly a month. But after a community-wide search, Beany the Jack Russell terrier, was finally reunited with her family yesterday.

Their beloved six-year-old pet disappeared during a late afternoon walk in Lilliput on Thursday September 10.

Owner Ali Ham, her family and friends, spent many hours every day searching for the tri-coloured terrier and posted numerous signs around the neighbourhood.

But Ali says she never gave up hope: "We had numerous sightings over the weeks so I kept hoping we would find her eventually although I knew we were running out of time.

"In the end it was two builders in Elgin Road who found her, just 200 yards from our house so she must have been on her way home.

"When one of them rang, I was worried it might not be Beany. Then he said he was calling the number on her collar tag and I just said to hang on to her and I raced up the road!

"She was dirty, skinny and very weak. She could hardly lift her head up at first and she weighs 4Ibs so she has lost a third of her body weight but she is one piece!"

Beany has since been taken to the vet and now looks set to make a full recovery.

Ali added: "She is looking much perkier today and has already put on a bit of weight. The children are thrilled - they couldn't believe.

"I would like to thank the Dog Lost charity - they have been absolutely brilliant and to all the Daily Echo readers for their support. We have been amazed by all the calls and messages we've had over the past few weeks. We are simply over-joyed to have her home."