A devoted owl owner was today celebrating after being reunited with his beloved pet - thanks to the Evening Echo

Welcome home - Phil Eckett gives Amber VIP treatment. Picture: LUAN MARSHALL 5TCS69

Phil Eckett, of Westcliff Gardens, Canvey, lost European Eagle owl Amber almost two weeks ago when she flew away.

However, after an appeal in the Echo families flocked to help him find the bird and on Boxing Day he got a call to say Amber had been seen.

Mr Eckett, 52, said: "I got a call from a man in Long Road saying he had seen her perching on top of his aviary. I went there and found her.

"Amazingly when I called her she just flew down to my arm and I took her home. It was the best Christmas present to have her home and safe."

Published Friday December 28, 2001