A HEROIC hound has delighted police officers after foiling a gang trying to smuggle £20 million-worth of drugs into Europe.

Cocker spaniel Sophie pleased proud instructors at Lancashire Constabulary when they heard she had discovered the huge haul - 20 tons of cannabis - while working with customs officers at a large Peruvian seaport.

Inspector Philip Williams, chief of Dog Training at Hutton, helped train Sophie three years ago before she left for sunnier climes.

Last year he went out to South America to check to see how the pooch was performing, but the latest haul is proof the eight week course the gundog was on in Preston with her Peruvian handler Victor Loyola was a success.

Inspector Williams said: "We're very proud. We could tell from early on Sophie had talent.

"How difficult it would've been to detect those drugs without her. It's a huge seaport loaded with containers. If people had searched it may have taken a lot longer and the drugs might not have been found.

"It's a fine achievement. I'm chuffed because it's nice to hear about results. I'm also proud because the Lancashire Constabulary name has become known worldwide."

Dogs like Sophie have been trained for police, army and other security services at Hutton for over 30 years and have gone on to work in 40 countries worldwide including Hungary, Nepal and Bolivia.

The animals - mainly gundogs such as spaniels and Labradors - can be taught to detect drugs, explosives, or become general purpose dogs used in different lines of duty.

They are mainly donated by or bought from members of the public when they are between one and two-and-a-half years old. If you can help call (01772) 618412.

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.