A couple are pleading for the safe return of their family dog’s ashes after their van was stolen – with the remains locked inside.
Alex and Jo Lawrence returned from their 10-day stay in Vietnam on Tuesday only to be told thieves had made away with their white Citroen Berlingo.
But rather than be worried about the £7,000 worth of camera equipment which was in the vehicle, photographer Alex, 45, is more concerned about getting the ashes of beloved dog Murray back.
The Kelpie-Collie cross died in 2016 aged 16 and Alex, from Birmingham, has kept her remains in the van ever since to remain close to her.
Thieves were caught on CCTV making off from the Park Inn by Radisson car park, close by to Heathrow airport in the early hours of March 10.
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‘I just couldn’t believe it. I expected it to be secure’, said Alex, who reported the theft to Metropolitan Police and hotel staff immediately.
He said: ‘I spent my life on the road and basically live in the van for 90% of the year.
‘Murray always came with me where ever I went. She would come to work with me and stay in the back of the van.
‘When she died I didn’t want her to be on a shelf at home. We had a connection.
‘She meant the world to me and I was devastated when she died.’
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The couple have also lost almost all of their clean clothes, and are pleading for anyone with information to come forward.
Alex said: ‘The camera stuff and clothes were just things. They can be replaced.
‘I can’t replace Murray. Someone, somewhere will know something. If you do know anything please come forward.
‘I just want the sentimental things back. They are irreplaceable and worthless to anyone apart from us.’
The discovery of the van theft came after Alex and Jo’s trip to Vietnam was marred by a terrifying street robbery.
Just an hour after setting foot in Vietnam, before they had even checked into the hotel, the couple were robbed in broad daylight by a moped gang.
The thieves made off with both of their passports, Jo’s mobile phone and her purse.
A Metropolitan Police spokesperson said police have been made aware of the theft and have launched an investigation, but no arrests have been made yet.
