A RELIEVED Big Issue seller has been reunited with his beloved dog - three weeks after the pet was snatched.

Matt Dawson said: "I can't believe Spud has come back. I'll never let him out of my sight again."

The pet was found by a customer in Ibrox and returned to Matt, who was heartbroken after Spud vanished from his pitch outside Somerfield, in Gordon Street in Glasgow city centre.

He had entrusted him to a man while he went to fetch water but when he returned, the dog had gone.

News of Spud's disappearance spread around the city - thanks partly to the Evening Times -and also on the internet.

After our article, dog-lovers set up a Bring Spud Back' group on Facebook and the Dogs Trust and website www.doglost.co.uk set up appeals to trace him.

In addition, seven Big Issue readers offered rewards totalling £675 for Spud's safe return.

Paul McNamee, editor of the Big Issue in Scotland, said: "The response to Matt and Spud's story has been incredible. The reward was a tremendous gesture from people which shows how big-hearted they can be even when we're told everyone is watching the pennies."

Matt, 43, said Spud had been spotted by a customer in Ibrox.

"In the garden opposite his house he saw a dog he was almost certain was Spud.

"He came up to me and he was shaking as he said: I've just seen Spud'."

Another customer, who also lives in Ibrox, went to the house and called Spud over when he saw him.

Matt said: "When I got Spud back, he was so delighted he ran up to me and sent me flying.

"I can't believe he's back. Stories like this don't have a happy ending in my experience.

"He's lost some weight but he is otherwise fine."