A startrescue.co.uk story...

It wasn't the disappearance of the dark grey Volkswagen Scirocco that caught the media's attention after police were called to a gym in Bearsden on Tuesday. It was the black cockapoo called Murphy who also went missing with the car.

But today Murphy's owners breathed a sigh of relief as officers returned their furry friend to them. While the thieves appear to have had no problem pinching the Scirocco, it seems they felt taking well-loved Murphy was a step too far – and left him tied to a post on Auchinairn roundabout in Bishopbriggs.

Police said the owners were "delighted" about the return of their pet.

The cockapoo was found at 1am on Thursday, less than 48 hours after the vehicle he was in was stolen from a Virgin Active health club in Strathblane Road, Bearsden. The theft took place on Tuesday evening between 16:50 and 17:10.

Thieves stole the car keys from a locker in the health club before making off with the Scirocco, which is still missing.

Police believe two males stole the vehicle. One was aged 30-39, was slim, with dark brown hair and sallow complexion. The other was also of slim build – with pale complexion.

Perhaps you're one of our Scottish car breakdown cover customers who saw a dark grey Scirocco (registration SL14 YPR) bearing away with a surprised looking cockapoo on Tuesday or Wednesday? If so, Kirkintilloch police station would like to hear from you.

You can call the police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

By Craig Hindmarsh