Tamar Jones feared her beloved border collie, Gale, had been killed or dog-napped after it disappeared from her farm in Sledgates a fortnight ago.

The whole village was involved in a frantic search for the well-known pooch and there was even an appeal in the Whitby Gazette.

Tamar, who made a star of her 10-year-old dog by writing about her exploits in a book, had all but given up hope of finding Gale.

But she was overjoyed on Sunday when Gale was found in the boot of a car, having been there without food, water or exercise for nine days solid.

"I feel like a bit of an idiot, but am relieved to get her back," enthused Tamar.

"It is incredible really.

"She seems to be okay, but was a bit stiff at the time, which is understandable. We took her to the vets and have just been told to keep an eye on her.

"Thankfully it looks like we have got away with it.

It turns out that Gale's adventure started when she made herself comfortable in the boot of a car, belonging to a man who was carrying out work at Tamar's farm.

The man, who does not wish to be named, subsequently went to London, leaving the car at home.

All the while Gale remained in the boot – and didn't make a noise.

"There was no barking, no yelping. She just lay there still, waiting for me to come and get her." said Tamar.

It was on Sunday when the man decided to clean out his car, opened the boot and noticed Gale behind a tool box. Even when given the chance of freedom, Gale remained in the spot where she had been for nine days.

Tamar added: "I was sat at home and all of a sudden I saw him banging on the window, saying he had found Gale in his boot. I was amazed.

"I think he felt a bit foolish, but there is no need to.

"There is no way anybody could have known she was in the boot.

"She just lay there not making a noise for nine days. I'm just happy to get her back."

Gale is back to her chirpy self and seems happy to be by her owner's side again.

It is thought she initially jumped in the boot after being startled by a low flying plane.

Tamar would like to express her gratitude to everybody who joined in the search for Gale during those worrying nine days.

She added: "People were fantastic, looking everywhere for her.

"I would like to say thank you to all the people who helped look for Gale."