A BLIND man who lost his dog said he has been “astounded” by the support he has received from people locally and up and down the country.

Ian Francis, who lives in Gibbs Crescent, Oxford, lost his trainee guide dog, Toffee, right, on Monday night at the Oxford Railway Station Marks & Spencer.

Toffee slipped through his collar and ran out of the station, according to Mr Francis.

The 46-year-old said he has been overwhelmed by the number of people publicising the search for his dog on Twitter.

Yesterday the public appeal for information on the Labrador’s whereabouts had gained 75,000 retweets, with high-profile celebrities like Graham Norton and Paul O’Grady spreading the word.

Mr Francis, who is partially sighted but registered blind, said: “To be honest I have been astounded, especially with the interest shown from Paul O’Grady and Graham Norton.

“Just having their names helps publicise it.”

Mr Francis has also received a generous offer from an “anonymous” person in Oxford, who has offered a £500 reward to anyone who returns Toffee.

The person has also employed 15 “door knockers”, who will go around Oxford asking if residents have any information on the missing dog.

Toffee is a light-coloured Labrador and is slightly overweight.

He has been microchipped.

If you have seen the dog call 01865 425 429 or email news@oxfordmail.co.uk