A pet owner says he is worried his two beloved Staffordshire bull terriers have been stolen to be used as fighting dogs.

Anthony Thompson's dogs were snatched separately in two incidents, just a day apart.

The dogs, called Millie and Buster, both eight-and-a-half months old, were taken as Mr Thompson was working at Cranswick Mill, Beverley Road in Cranswick, near Driffield.

Police said the idea the two Staffies could have been taken to be used for fighting is not something they are aware of at the moment, but officers will be trying to locate the dogs.

A national animal charity has said the breed has been targeted in the past by people who want to use them to fight.

Mr Thompson, 46, of Bridlington Road, Driffield, said: "I cannot belive someone could do this, it is a tragedy.

"Millie and Buster are both very playful and affectionate puppies.

"I have brought them up to be so considerate and loving. I can't believe they have gone."

"What is really frightening me is the thought they could be used as fighting dogs if they fall into the wrong hands, as they are still quite young."

Millie – the first dog to fall victim to the thief – was snatched last Thursday between noon and 12.30pm.

Mr Thompson was working at Cranswick Mill when someone entered his blue Ford Transit van and took Millie, before fleeing the industrial site.

Millie's brother Buster managed to get away safely.

The following day, a distraught Mr Thompson returned to Cranswick Mill with his van and Buster.

However, thieves struck again – taking the van with Buster inside.

The second theft took place between 3.30pm and 4.30pm as the van was parked inside the demolition compound on the site.

Clarissa Baldwin, chief executive at the Dogs Trust, the UK's largest dog welfare charity, said: "We are aware of cases where Staffies and Staffie crosses are being illegally bred for fighting.

"We believe the trend of having a dog as a status symbol or as a weapon has led to an increase in the number of Staffies in our centres."

Police are appealing for information on the theft of the dogs and are calling for a man to come forward who they believe may be able to help with inquiries.

PC Stephen Storey said: "It is believed a man with what has been described as an Irish accent was seen driving a large white van with ladders on the roof around the industrial estate at the time the van was believed to have been taken.

"I would like this man to come forward and help us with our inquiries."

Anyone with information should call police on 0845 6060222.