THIS is the loyal Chihuahua responsible for scaring a pair of bungling burglars as they attempted to raid a pub.

Two unidentified men ran away from The Roebuck Pub in Earley at around 5am this morning after they were alerted by Erik's bark.

Owner David Rigg said they caused damage after forcing entry to the building, but they were forced to flee with only a handful of cigarettes after the deovted canine stepped in to save the day.

He said: "They have caused over £1,000 worth of damage after gaining entry and forcing open the pool table draw, but alas they didn't get anything out if it.

"I am very proud of my little Miniature Chihuahua Erik who scared them off and all they managed to get away with is 200 of my duty cigarettes which were left on office shelf.

"They have caused a lot of damage to the property. If anyone can help us identify these scumbags please let us know or call Thames Valley Police.

"I want to stop these people wrecking our livelihood."

The offenders are believed to be two white men in their late 20's or 30's, around 5ft 10ins and of slim build.

Both were wearing hoodies and one of the men had a trimmed beard, while the other was believed to be wearing distinctive luminous trainers.

Staff from The Roebuck Pub made the appeal for more information on their Facebook page, releasing a series of stills and videos from the pub's CCTV footage.

A spokesman for Thames Valley Police added: "We have been informed of a burglary at The Roebuck pub in Earley, where damage was caused and cigarettes were taken.

"The incident happened at around 5am this morning.

"Our investigation is ongoing and we would ask anyone with information to call 101, quoting reference 43170293677."