Bird of prey enthusiast Mr Guy Williams awoke last Monday morning to find the one-year-old hawk named Tidus missing from his aviary at his home in Green Street, Padiham.

But on Friday, the 28-year-old received some welcome news – Tidus had been found by a collector in Nelson.

Police had been investigating the bird's disappearance. He said: "I am just so relieved to get Tidus back because I was devastated when I saw he had been stolen. Rearing a bird of prey is a unique and very personal experience. You have to gain its confidence and get the bird used to sitting on a human arm.

"That is what upset me most, but I am just glad he is back safe and sound, and apparently unharmed."

Mr Williams, who has two children with his partner Emma, said the family had been left upset by the theft.

Mr Williams said he managed to locate Tidus through the close-knit community of falconers in the area, but will be tightening security at his home.