12-year-old Torak was recaptured in Curridge. (Stock photo)

Gate may have been deliberately left open 

A wolf that escaped from its enclosure in West Berkshire has been safely recaptured.

12-year-old Torak disappeared from the Wolf Conservation Trust in Beenham at around 8 am yesterday (18 January). Thames Valley Police issued an emergency text message to local residents and schools advising them to remain inside.

Later that day, officers confirmed that the wolf had fled to Curridge where it was safely coaxed into a cage. A team of animal catchers were on-hand with tranquilliser darts, but fortunately, they were not required.

Initial reports suggested that strong winds had destroyed the fencing of Torak’s enclosure. But the sanctuary told BBC News that the gate to his enclosure may have been deliberately left open.

"I think somebody deliberately opened the gate. A lot of people don't particularly believe in having animals in captivity,” said sanctuary founder Theresa Palmer. ”When we were near the wolf trust I was close to him but he was frightened and didn't want to be caught.

“The fact he went through a field of sheep shows he would never have been a danger to the public. Now he's given up. He's had his moment of freedom now."

The Wolf Conservation Trust was established more than 20 years ago by Palmer and her late husband. It is a not-for-profit organisation that aims to enhance conservation, scientific knowledge and public awareness of wolves.

The Trust also aims to provide opportunities for ethological research and improve the chances of survival of wolves in the wild. It is currently home to 10 wolves, that live in four groups.