THIEVES are believed to have stolen a family’s pet duck.

Einstein, an Indian runner duck, was last seen on Saturday in a field at the back of Adele Owen’s home in Oakham Close, Bury.

A local farmer has dismissed speculation that Einstein, who sports an unusual crop of feathers on his head, has been attacked by a fox as they do not tend to hunt in the day time.

Also, the breed cannot fly and Adele, who owns three other Indian runners, including Einstein’s mate, Maggie, said: “I am absolutely adamant that he has been stolen.

“Our house backs on to a farm field and we often let the ducks out to roam free and have a paddle in the disused canal.

“The farmer has assured us that Einstein won’t have been attacked by a fox and we have not come across any signs of an attack during our searches for him.

“Einstein is an unusual looking bird so we think that is why he was took and the others left.”

A £20 reward is being offered for Einstein’s safe return. Anyone who knows of his whereabouts can contact Adele on 07939 115238.