A FAMILY have issued a heartbreaking plea after their tortoise went missing.

Anna, the 25-year-old animal, vanished from her garden in Harrier Way, Waltham Abbey, on July 31.

Carina Hill has had the tort most of her adult life and is desperate for her safe return.

When the weather gets colder as the summer begins to die down, she is concerned the animal will be at risk.

She said: "I have tried everything to find her including finger tip search vets, neighbour's, posters I'm even trying to find a scent dog to help.

"They can burrow quite deep and she may well turn up in someone's garden. I'm worried as it starts getting colder she will be at risk."

Have you seen Anna? E-mail aslater@london.newsquest.co.uk