Alice might now be a more suitable name for Jack russell Buster after he chased a rabbit down a hole and disappeared underground.

Owners Mike and Chrissy Garner spent 20 hours looking for the mischievous Maidstone mutt – and even called out drainage experts to help track the dog down.

But despite a search team involving a dozen people around Chainhurst in Marden at one point, Buster could not be found.

Desperation set in and several hours later, semi-retired gardener Mr Garner and his care worker wife called in the services of Dyno-Rod.

The Tunbridge Wells branch used underground cameras to look, but engineer Dave Hedges could not find him.

It wasn't until 11am the following day when Mr Garner returned to the woods that he was reunited with the dirt-covered dog when Buster appeared out of nowhere and jumped into his arms.

Laughing, Mr and Mrs Garner, 76 and 68, said: "He's a little rascal!"

The owners, from Dairy Lane, Chainhurst, have now vowed to keep him on a lead after he ran off to chase a rabbit through woodland while they were out walking.

But they never gave up hope of finding Buster, who was a rescue dog and has been with the family for five years.

Mrs Garner said: "It was a bit of an ordeal. We left our gates open all night for him and at one point we had 12 people looking.

"Buster just jumped up and kissed Mike when he found him! He's all forgiven now.

"I don't think he's got over it yet and is now being thoroughly spoilt.

"He's quite a homely dog and has never done anything like this before – I think he gave up the fight because he was thirsty."

Mr Garner added: "We never gave up hope."

The couple thanked all those involved in the search, but especially friend Dave Butcher who spent all night looking for him with Mr Garner.

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