Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service dog Reqs receives PDSA medal

Reqs was chosen from his litter for having the correct attributes to become a fire investigation dog

A fire investigation dog - said to be Britain's longest-serving - has been awarded with a medal marking his service over an 11-year career.

Reqs, who worked for Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service, attended 500 fires between 2012 and his retirement in July.

The Labrador became the 42nd recipient of the PDSA Order of Merit.

The charity said it was "a fitting tribute to his lifetime of dedication and hard work".

The 12-year-old received his medal at Hertfordshire's Joint Emergency Services Academy in Stevenage earlier.

The PDSA has now awarded the order of merit to 42 animals, including 12 horses and 30 dogs

During his career, he would identify the presence of flammable liquids, such as petrol or lighter fluid.

He has attended incidents across the country, including a shop explosion in Leicester and a house explosion in Clacton, Essex.

Reqs' handler and owner Nikki Harvey, who has worked for Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service for 30 years, said she was proud seeing him receive an award.

"Reqs is retired now and enjoying every minute! He still loves playing with his toys and going on long walks," she said.

Reqs' handler Nikki Harvey described him as "loving member of our family"