Close shave as stolen goat found

Billy is said to be "safe and well" after being found in a stable

A goat has had his purple beard shaved off by thieves who took him from a Leicester pub.

The goat, who was named "Billy" after comedian Billy Connolly, was taken from the garden of the Manchester Hotel on Knighton Fields Road on 8 July.

It was found by police in a stable near the village of Theddingworth on Friday. Billy has now been reunited with his owners and is said to be "safe and well". Police have appealed for anyone with information to come forward.

'Worrying time'

Pc Chris Hill said "The thieves had shaved his beard off to try to avoid detection but the owner has confirmed that it is definitely Billy and he is now back at home and comfortable.

"Stolen livestock crimes are often difficult to solve as the animals can be shipped out of the area very quickly.

"Anyone who has had an animal stolen knows that it can be a worrying time waiting to hear some news."

The goat is aged about 18 months and has lived at the pub for about three months.