Jonathan Ross and Ricky Gervais have formed a special new crime-fighting team - to rescue a stolen puppy in London.

The two TV stars are combining to save Manon, an eight-month-old whippet, after she was pinched while out with a dog walker on Hampstead Heath on June 25.  

The Hampstead celebrities were so touched by the tale they have offered £1,000 each as a reward.

Speaking on Ross's Radio 2 show, Gervais said: "I am doing an appeal for this stolen dog.

Crime crusaders: Jonathan Ross and Ricky Gervais

"This lovely little whippet puppy was stolen this week from Hampstead Heath. It's a little eight-month-old whippet puppy.

"It was stolen on Hampstead Heath and they know it's stolen because its collar was discarded." 

The Office star and comedian added: "It's fawn and it's got little tiger stripes and grey eyes.

"It's beautiful and the reason we've got to do a national appeal is that these dogs aren't usually found in the local area.

"The people who steal them then take them to Southampton or Kent and sell them.

"There's a clock ticking because it's on a special diet under veterinary supervision so they won't be feeding it right, because they won't know it needs this diet."

Gervais has just helped a neighbour find a missing cat and admitted he now has a growing local reputation as a crime-fighter.

"I am known as the dog finder - I've done this once before," he said.

Distraught: Owner Terri Berg with a picture of Manon

Ross said he'd seen the story in his local paper, the Ham & High, and agreed to double his pal's cash gift.

He urged anyone who had bought a puppy which looks like Manon to take it to the vet to check if it is micro-chipped.  

The two mates also urged listeners to take Manon to Mayhew Animal Home in Kensal Green if they find her.

Manon's owner Terri Berg, who has recruited private investigators, a clairvoyant and the country's top dog trainers for the search, said she was delighted with the celeb twist in the tale.

The pup is the country's most pampered pooch with painted toe nails and a collection of designer collars - so it's fitting that the rich and famous are taking note.

"It's wonderful and lovely and I am very grateful to them," said Ms Berg.

"This has increased the reward I put forward to £3,000.

"There are several strong leads which the private investigators are following up.

"I won't let up until I find Manon. I have the resources to keep this up and I will not rest until I found my baby."