Couple's relief as missing Hexham sheep Alpine Molly found

Anne and Robert Armstrong's prized Swiss Valais ewe Alpine Molly has been found after it was missing from their home at East Fourstones Farm near Hexham.

As days passed, the couple began to worry they would not see their beloved five-year-old sheep again until one day, a familiar bleat was heard near a coal barn.

Anne said: "I was just getting back from walking the dog and my husband called out to me saying 'she is back'.

"Not understanding what he meant, I said 'who is back?' To which he replied to ‘our sheep.’ When I heard that - I rushed down to the barn where he was.

"After days of being missing, she was standing next to her usual barn where she normally hangs out.

Read more: Hexham farmer appeals for return of stolen Swiss Valais sheep

"My husband said he had heard a bleat, and it was her. She looked sad and worried, so he gave her a massive hug and told her she was ok and was safe back home.

"She was born and bred here on the farm and means a lot to my husband who has had a lot of sheep in the past and so did his family.

"We are so glad she is back but wished she could talk to us and tell us where she has been.

"We aren't sure how she got back as the police told us they did not have much evidence to suggest she had been stolen.

"The amount of support we have received has been amazing. Facebook is not always used for good things but in case it was and showed how powerful it was to have friends. It also showed a lot of animal lovers.

"We didn't think it would be national news but everyone helped spread our appeal and we think that has helped her to come home.

"Now she is back with her two goat friends and my grandchildren will be pleased to see her when they come up.

"It is such a relief to see her back safe and sound."