AN Alton toddler faces a bleak Christmas having returned from hospital to find his pet rabbit gone.

Deaghlan Langridge, who will be three in January, had been in hospital to have his tonsils removed and ear gromits fitted and was looking forward to being reunited with his pet.

But on arriving back at his Barlow Mews home on Tuesday, parents Shane and Kaylee had to break the news that his long-eared pal was missing.

It is thought 'Smokey Joe' was taken from his garden hutch in the early hours of Monday morning.

For full story, see this week's Alton Herald.