The hunt for a missing dog last seen at a Norfolk beach nearly three months ago is being ramped up a gear.

Great Yarmouth Mercury: Rio has been missing for nearly a monthPicture: Lynda LutnerRio has been missing for nearly a monthPicture: Lynda Lutner (Image: Archant)

Rio, a pointer, was last seen at Winterton beach on March 25.

His owners are French and were on holiday at the time.

They launched an appeal to find him and there have been searches involving a drone and plane and volunteers.

Rio’s owner Lynda Lutner said the search was now being widened with new posters and business cards with his details being widely distributed by people who are supporting the hunt.

She said: “Orange and white pointers are not a common dog so if someone has him he should be easy to spot.

“In addition he has two spots on his head which are quite distinctive.

“It could be he has had an accident or is living in the wilderness.

“He was an abused hunting dog in Spain. We had him for just a short twelve months and he grew in confidence and trust during that time.

“He is a very gentle boy.”

She also praised people for supporting the search by saying: “The people of Norfolk are so kind and have been looking out for Rio since he went missing.

“We never expected people to be so caring about a dog they don’t know.”

Anyone with information on Rio’s whereabouts should call 01692 651771 or 0776 6665684.