A search and rescue dog from Aberdeenshire has been given an award of the highest pedigree.
Diesel the springer spaniel from Torphins, as well as Keith and Pauline Marley who have been operating the New Arc animal rescue centre in Ellon for the past 13 years, were recognised at the Animal Action Awards yesterday in the House of Lords.
Mr and Mrs Marley were presented with the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW) Wildlife Rescue Award, and 10-year-old Diesel got his paws on the organisation’s Animal of the Year prize.
The accolades were handed over by wildlife presenter Bill Oddie.
Diesel, who works with the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, is one of a very small team of UK dogs whose specialist skills are used to save lives by the UK International Search and Rescue Team.
And although he has already served for many years, there is currently no date set for his retirement.
As long as the spaniel continues with his boundless energy he could continue in his role for another year before enjoying his twilight years with his handler Gary Carroll.
The New Arc centre cares for around 500 animals and birds and at any one time, with is population of poorly wildlife reaching as many as 750 during the busiest periods of the year.
The charity works all year round to care for all creatures great and small in need, from tiny squirrel babies to horses and pigs.