Arsonists in the South West will shortly have a new fire investigator to contend with - Cappa the black labrador, the latest sniffer dog to be sponsored by insurer Zurich.
Cappa is starting an intensive 11-week training programme with the Devon Fire & Rescue Service.
Once trained, the dog will be able to detect whether accelerants such as petrol or lighter fuel have been used to start a fire deliberately.
Cappa joins six four-legged colleagues already sponsored by Zurich and Eagle Star. To protect their paws from sharp glass or nails at the scene of a fire, the dogs wear special protective paw boots.
Zurich hopes that its doggy detection force will help improve crime clear-up figures and reduce costs.
"By sponsoring Cappa and other dogs like him we will be helping to provide a fast and cost-effective detection service," said Zurich spokeswoman Wendy May.
Hosted by comedian and actor Tom Allen, 34 Gold, 23 Silver and 22 Bronze awards were handed out across an amazing 34 categories recognising brilliance and innovation right across the breadth of UK general insurance.
