A DISTRAUGHT mum-of-two has put up a cash reward for the safe return of her beloved pet dog.

Daina Alencikiene last saw three-year-old Jack Russell Terrier 'Granthas' when he ran off during a walk in Epping Forest near the Waterworks Roundabout on Friday afternoon.

Ms Alencikiene, of Grove Crescent, South Woodford, carried out a frantic two-hour search for the dog with friends that evening, but could find no sign of him.

The Lithuanian-born mum now fears Granthas may have been taken by someone - or hit by a car on the busy A406 nearby.

Speaking on her behalf, her friend, Augis Nauckunas, said: "Daina and her sons have been so upset since the dog went missing.

"They all really loved the dog. Daina is worried someone took him. Anything could have happened.

"We put up a load of posters in the area he went missing but have heard nothing back.

"He is a lovely dog, and it would be fantastic if someone came forward with some information."

Mr Nauckunas said Ms Alencikiene was so desperate for her dog's return that she is now considering putting up a cash reward.

He said: "Daina doesn't have much to give for this, but said she will try and borrow some money for a reward if it is needed.

"This shows how much she wants Granthas back."