SUPER-SLEUTHS in Cowling are on the hunt for a gnome which has gone missing from one of the village pubs.

Bay Horse landlords Keith and Jill Procter discovered the gnome was missing from the pub fireplace before Christmas.

And the plot thickened when they received a ransom note which stated that a gallon of beer and "a smile off Keith" was required to guarantee his safe return.

Mrs Procter said their remaining gnome was lonely without his pal and added: "We will not bow to rebel factions kidnapping our gnome!

"We just want it back as soon as possible so it can be with our other gnome.

"The fireplace does not look the same without him."