Essex Police are on the look out for residents who can open their homes to one of their latest furry recruits.

The 'puppy walkers' will need to be willing to take care of a young German Shepherd and help teach them about their environment, living and growing amongst a family as any other puppy would.

The puppy would live with the family for up to 15 months before they return to the force ready to begin their career.

Interested residents must have a fully secure garden, a large vehicle which would fit a dog cage and free time to attend puppy classes.

The puppy must not be left at home for more than three hours on its own so the role would best suit a retired, semi- retired person or a part-time worker.

The puppies generally leave their mother at around seven weeks old to go and live with their temporary family.

Walkers would not be expected to attend civilian puppy classes and vet bills and food costs are met by Essex Police.

If you're interested, please email your name, address, contact number and a brief outline of why you want to become a puppy walker to stuart.pryke@essex.pnn.police.uk.