GRIFFIN the dog was found frightened, hungry and roaming the streets as a stray when the local Blue Cross centre took him in. But now the sprightly cocker spaniel has been given a new life fighting crime. Staff at The Blue Cross animal adoption centre in

GRIFFIN the dog was found frightened, hungry and roaming the streets as a stray when the local Blue Cross centre took him in.

But now the sprightly cocker spaniel has been given a new life fighting crime.

Staff at The Blue Cross animal adoption centre in Kimpton quickly realised that Griffin was eager to learn and needed lots of stimulation to keep him happy.

So, when they heard that Wiltshire Police were looking for a new recruit into their dog section, they knew that the loveable canine would be perfect for the role.

He qualified to detect drugs on people earlier this year and he has since identified over 100 individuals carrying illegal substances, leading to several arrests.

Lynda Campbell, Blue Cross centre manager at Kimpton, said: "We are very proud to hear that Griffin is doing so well in his new life. He is a lovely dog who really deserved a second chance. He is a very clever boy who needs lots of challenges so he'll love his new role fighting crime."

Griffin has an excellent sense of smell and has been trained to scan people as they come near him and sit by them if he detects the scent of a controlled substance.

People sniffed-out by him have been arrested for possessing Class A drugs and possession with intent to supply. Numerous criminals have also been given cautions or fixed penalty tickets for possession of cannabis.

Wiltshire Police dog handler, Pc Marie Poole has had Griffin since he left The Blue Cross. She said: "When I first met Griffin it was obvious he loved to play and was a very confident dog. He has fitted into the team really well and seems to love the work. Despite his tough start to life he has turned into a great police dog with a real character."

The Blue Cross does not receive government funding so it relies on public donations to continue its vital work. If you can offer a home to a deserving animal at The Blue Cross or you would like to make a donation towards their care please contact the centre on 01438 832232 or visit the centre.