They say you cannot teach an old dog new tricks – but a Hertfordshire fire investigation dog is preparing to pass down little nuggets of wisdom to a black Labrador.

Seven-year-old CC has been helping investigate the causes of fires around Hertfordshire and Borehamwood since 2007, but will soon be joined by a new partner in crime, Reqs.

The pooches, which are trained to sniff out accelerants that may be used to start a fire, have been getting to nose each other this week.

CC and Req’s handler, Nikki Harvey, said: “I am really looking forward to working with both dogs. CC is a pleasure to work with and it will be wonderful to take a new dog into his care to pass on all his skills. I am hoping they will forge a long lasting friendship.”

CC will work for another year, before he retires and Reqs follows in his paws to take over the mantle.