SCRAPPY the fire dog and a Crufts winner have teamed up to help raise awareness about water safety.

The event was held in Chester-le-Street by County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service [CDDFRS] to share water safety advice.

Scrappy, CDDFRS’s dog, was there showing off her search and investigation skills alongside Devon, a west highland terrier from Tow Law who won this years’ Crufts best in show.

The fire service has been running events as part of the Royal Life Saving Society campaign week, from June 18-26, to raise awareness about water safety and has been visiting schools to educate young people.

Stuart Errington, chief fire officer for CDDFRS, said: “As the weather warms up more people may be tempted to go into rivers or lakes and we need to remind everyone of the dangers including the cold, currents, rocks and hazards beneath the surface.

“We are also keen to remind dog walkers and runners of the dangers they may face. Figures show that 44 per cent of people who drowned in 2014 had no intention of entering the water. Trips, falls or underestimating the risks near water meant that 302 people lost their lives.”

Marie Burns, Devon’s owner, said: “It’s a good cause and if we can do anything to help to raise awareness then I’m pleased to be a part of it.

“Devon loves all the attention and it’s great that we can do something and put something back.”

She was also there to help run a dog show for SOSAD, raising money for Deerness Dog Rescue Centre.