Appeal after turtle Jim toddles off from his Shropshire home

Jim, an American three-toed box turtle, went missing a couple of weeks ago from his home in Maws Craft Centre in Jackfield, near Ironbridge.

Despite much searching he has still not been found and his owner of 29 years, Sabine Townend, is becoming increasingly worried.

She said: "Contrary to most people's belief tortoises are not that slow.

"Jim in particular is quite small, very lively and quick. He could have travelled some distance by now. I am hoping that with the return of the warm weather forecast for the next few days he will come out and bask in the sun.

"Maybe he will be spotted then and could be apprehended. He might be at large in a garden in Jackfield, wandering the Severn Valley Way or on his way to Broseley, Ironbridge or Bridgnorth.

"I don't think he will have gone for the river as box tortoises are not good swimmers." Jim's shell is approximately four inches in length and of brown colour with no pattern or markings. His skin is brown, with a black and yellow pattern on his throat. His eyes are orange.

Ms Townend said: "Box tortoises are very shy creatures. If anybody spots them they can safely pick him up as he won't bite.

"If you do find him please call me, we had him for 29 years and he is a member of the family."

She is also asking garden owners to check bonfire piles before lighting them in case the little tortoise is sheltering under or inside the pile.

Jim was last seen at Maws Craft Centre at 10am on September 4.

Please contact Sabine with any news at Unit B31, Maws Craft Centre, Jackfield, Telford, TF8 7LS or telephone (01952) 883030.