Tribute paid to dog who sniffed out £9m drug hauls

Police dog Gizmo was based at Loch Ryan in Dumfries and Galloway

Tributes have been paid to a police dog based at a Scottish ferry port who helped sniff out drugs hauls with a street value of more than £9m during his lifetime.

Police Scotland said Gizmo - a sprocker spaniel - had a 10-year career at Loch Ryan Port in Dumfries and Galloway.

During that time, he assisted in drugs recoveries in the area and across the country.

Police said he had died last month at the age of 11 after a short illness.

Gizmo began his work with Police Scotland in 2014.

As well as his work at the ferry ports in the south west of the country, he also attended major events like state visits and music and sporting events.

Det Sgt David Hanlon said: "We are deeply saddened by the death of Police Dog Gizmo, who was a fundamental part of our team.

"Police dogs are a crucial support in our work to keep our communities safe and deter crime.

"Gizmo was a valued colleague, and he will be sadly missed, especially by his former handler."