'Dexter' appointed as new fire investigation dog for East Midlands

Freckle, the trusty Fire Investigation dog for the East Midlands, has been replaced by a young cocker spaniel following seven years of loyal service.

He has served as the region's investigation dog since 2008 and attended an average of 200 fire investigation job a year.

In a career spanning several years, Freckle has been influential in the investigation of many high profile cases including the tragic fire at Victory Road, Derby, that sadly resulted in the death of six children, and a major house fire in Leicestershire;

He will be replaced by a 14-month-old black and white cocker spaniel named Dexter. The young replacement has undergone an intensive training period and passed a two day assessment to gain his licence to work.

East Midlands Fire Investigation Dog Handler, Watch Dave Coss has paid tribute to Freckle, but insists replacement Dexter is up to the challenge of filling his predecessor's boots.