A York businessman is upset and looking for your help - because his best friend and mascot, Oliver the dog, has gone missing.

Dave Dee is appealing to anyone who may have seen Oliver after he disappeared on Thursday morning from the doorway of the Banana Warehouse, his furniture shop on Piccadilly.

"I got him from a house clearance I took away the furniture and Oliver came with it," said Dave.

"He's my permanent companion. If I go for a drink, he comes with me and even goes on my motorbike with me.

"I really miss him and would love to know what has happened to him," he added.

Oliver is well-known to all Dave's customers, and even some from Holland noticed his absence when they visited the warehouse this morning.

Dave has been in touch with the RSPCA, dog warden and police concerning Oliver's disappearance but no-one has seen him.

"One old lady told me that she saw him follow a person walking down Piccadilly with two mongrel dogs about 11.30 on Thursday morning," said Dave.

"I'm appealing to anyone who may have seen him to get in touch with me. He never wanders off usually."

Oliver is a two year-old white Lhasapso with brown ears. His fur is currently clipped short and he was wearing a blue collar.

Anyone who has sighted Oliver or who has any information as to his whereabouts can call Dave Dee on 672237.