There was unbridled joy last night after missing pooch Louis was found safe and well.

The much-loved beagle disappeared while on his walkies near Framlingham on Friday, sparking an army of Ipswich Star readers to join the hunt for him.

But shortly before 10pm yesterday – and enticed by smells of his favourite dog food – the loveable pet made his return.

Rosemary Williams, mother-in-law of Hertfordshire dog owner Ollie Cochran, had last night sat patiently waiting for Louis in a car park near Pound Farm, Framlingham.

Eventually, enticed by an open car boot containing his favourite dog food, he decided his adventure was over and climbed in.

Mr Cochran, speaking to the Star last night, said: “I’m still in shock to be perfectly honest and I could not quite believe it when she rang.”

The four-year-old pooch ran off after being frightened by thunder while out walking at Pound Farm on Friday afternoon.

Mr Cochran launched an appeal pleading for Louis’s safe return on Twitter – and, helped by publicity from the Ipswich Star, his followers rocketed from 600 to 1,500. He last night paid tribute to the Ipswich Star and the Suffolk residents who had helped his appeal with vital sightings.

“It’s restored my faith in humanity,” he said.

“The very fact people come along and help you is incredible. They have given up their own time when they don’t even know you.

“Thank you to everyone at the Ipswich Star for being so kind and helpful and publicising this appeal.”

Louis will stay with Mr Cochran’s mother-in-law near Framlingham before his owners come and collect him over the coming days.

Despite being tired and hungry, Louis was last night said to be otherwise unharmed by his three-day adventure.

Nigel Pickover, editor of the Ipswich Star, said: “Readers of The Star, in print, online and via social media have been closely following and helping in the search for Louis.

“We are thrilled he is safe and delighted that everyone linked together to secure this happy ending.”