Appeal launched to help find Richard Dacre's Mark 2 Ford Escort after it was stolen in Shirley, Southampton

But 1979 was also the year grandad Richard Dacre’s pride and joy – a Mark 2 Ford Escort – hit the road.

Since he bought the car 19 years ago he has worked tirelessly cleaning, polishing and maintaining it to keep the car on the road.

Now thieves have struck, taking the car from the drive of Richard’s Shirley home.

The 56-year-old has issued a desperate plea for its return.

His family have launched a social media campaign asking people to report sightings and spread the word that it has been stolen to stop it from being sold.

Their plea has caught the attention of hundreds including Saints legend Matt Le Tissier who has re-posted it to his followers on Twitter.

Richard last saw it when he left for work at 9.45pm on Tuesday night, but when he returned home from his night shift at 6am Wednesday it had vanished.

Since the grandfather-of-five started his social media campaign it has been spotted multiple times in Southampton including at Shirley Towers where three men were seen trying to get the engine started.

It was last spotted at 5.50am on Wednesday in Allington Lane in Townhill Park behind a white van heading towards Fair Oak. It is unclear whether it was being towed or driven.

The Mark 2 Ford Escort

Now Richard is urging the thieves to return it safely as he is concerned they may set it ablaze if they cannot start it or sell it on.

The dock worker from Wilton Crescent said: “I just want it returned and in one piece, not trashed.

“They might set fire to it if they can’t sell it for money and they can’t drive it around.

“It’s the sentimental value and the fact I’ve had it so long.

“At some point I think it would be found but in what state, I don’t know.

“I’m urging them to just leave it somewhere and let us know where it is.”

Hampshire Constabulary is investigating the theft. Anyone with information can call 101 or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.