SPRINGER spaniels Barney and Holly have become the latest recruits to join the county’s elite team of drug-busting police dogs.

The keen-sensed pair, both aged 18 months, passed a rigorous six-week selection process to make the grade and began training with PCs Claire Todd and Debbie Shields from the constabulary dog section this summer.

Having been taught under the firm instruction of dog handler PC Mike Leigh, Barney and Holly, who were donated to the force by families in Gloucestershire, are now fully operational and able to sniff out Class A and B drugs, cash and firearms.

Their recruitment means the section now has five drugs search dogs in addition to its general purpose German Shepherds.

Dog section sergeant Mark Duncton said: "With five dogs we can provide a drugs detection service virtually round the clock.

"More than 50 people carrying unlawful drugs were detected last month due to the combined efforts of the drugs dog handlers and other officers. "Our dogs love their work and have a very fulfilling life."

The force is again on the lookout for German shepherds, or smaller working dogs, which can help with general police work such as tracking and searching.

Applicants should be aged between one and two, have a sound temperament, be socialised and playful.

For more information contact the dog section on 01242 276427.