A couple who vowed to move home after their tortoises were stolen for the second time in two years have had one of their pets returned.

Thieves climbed into Nick and Kate Lockett's garden and snatched two tortoises from pens.

The couple, of New England Road, Haywards Heath, feared Simon and Poppy would die because they will not receive specialist care and Simon, who had been kept in isolation, carries a virus fatal to other tortoises.

After we ran the story, a member of the public came forward with information.

Mr Lockett said: "A member of the public came forward, having bought Poppy from someone who could not account for its origins."

Poppy is now being kept safely at a secret location with the couple's other tortoise who was left behind by the thieves. Simon, a female, is still missing.

Mr Lockett added: "We are very concerned for the health of Simon as she carries a virus that can be fatal to other tortoises.

"Although she has no symptoms at the moment she still needs special care and attention as she could become sick at any time. The virus is not harmful to humans."

Two years ago, the couple had three other tortoises stolen. Two were recovered after an appeal in The Argus.

Simon can be identified by a blue dot on her shell and a reward is being offered for her safe return. Anyone with information should call 0845 6070999.