Essex Police have been putting their highly trained search dogs through their paces.

The 11 animals provide back up to officers on the streets in dealing with crime.

The labradors, springer and cocker spaniels and a springador are used to find weapons and seek out drugs during the execution of search warrants, among other things.

The force looks all across the country to make sure they get the dogs of the right calibre to take on the role.

They are then subject to a six-week training programme before beginning their careers.