ELEVEN tortoises have made their way home after they were taken from their Bridgwater owner – but one of the reptiles is still missing.

Eileen Ford, 73, had 12 tortoises stolen from her home overnight on May 8 but six were later left in a cage near her house and another four returned by innocent people who had bought them in good faith, following a public appeal for their return.

But one tortoise, tiny Toby, is still missing and the pensioner is appealing for help to find the poorly creature.

Vets have advised against Toby going into hibernation following a bowel operation when he was younger and have put him on medication.

Mrs Ford said: “I’m worried that someone is holding him and doesn’t know how to look after him properly.

“It would be a shame if he were to die just because of someone’s misjudgement. I’m glad I got the others back. I’ve been collecting them over the years and I think they are cute, interesting creatures. I’m not interested in taking the matter to court – I just want my Toby back.”

Toby is a four- to five-inch spur-thighed tortoise with a lumpy back.

A police spokesman said the crime had been reported and they carried out a full investigation.

A woman had been arrested but was later released without charge due to insufficient information.

Anyone with any information can call Mrs Ford on 07802404929 or police on 0845 456 7000.