The owner of a wallaby which went missing in Co Tyrone this week has spoken of his joy as the marsupial was located in the early hours of Thursday morning.
Winnie the wallaby escaped her enclosure shortly after arrival at Glenpark Estate in Gortin on Sunday evening, with a frantic search taking place from the local community ever since.
However, estate owner Richard Beattie was jumping for joy as Winnie was found in foliage near to where she was last seen at the weekend.
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A specialist search team was tasked on Wednesday night with an advanced search light, which managed to capture Winnie hiding in a bush. Richard told Belfast Live the team had a task on their hands to get hold of Winnie afterwards, but thankfully she is now back with her male companion in the estate and is doing well.
"We managed to find her shortly after midnight last night," Richard said.
"We had sightings reported all over the country but we eventually found her amongst the foliage not far from where she went missing.
"She is back home safe now and we're just delighted. We were filled with the worst of worry thinking about what might have happened.
"A massive thank you to everyone who helped us and sent us messages of support while this rascal went on her little adventure.
"Special thanks to Tony Smith, Derek Storey, James & Nathan O Hagan and Davy Sinnamon who were key to helping us find Winnie and bring her home late last night."
Richard said he and his wife Selina were 'touched' by the support they had received from the local community this week.
He added: "Selina and I have been genuinely touched by the outpouring of support over the few days. There are too many people to mention, but we appreciate all of the calls and messages, and also the media interest which helped highlight our plight.
"We couldn’t be happier, and can whole heartedly assure you Winnie is none the worse after the great escape!"
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