THIS cuddly companion may appear to be the cutest member of the Warrington police force but springer Rufus has proved life on the team certainly isn't a dog's life.

The drugs hound has quickly become an integral part of the team after completing a training course with handler PC Neil Jukes.

But what is a week like in the life of two-year-old Rufus?

Armed with a nose for trouble, Rufus s assisted with a drugs warrant at a commercial address on Winwick Quay industrial estate on Monday, May 16.  
With the assistance of Rufus, police were able to locate a significant amount of cocaine, cannabis and cannabis resin bars.  

A man was arrested on suspicion of drug offences but he has since been bailed pending further enquiries.

Days later on Wednesday, May 18, Rufus was out and about in Warrington town centre during the evening to help tackle drug-related anti-social behaviour. 

Along with officers, Rufus was on patrol on Palmyra Gardens and Bank Park were patrolled as well as the areas outside fast food restaurants.

Rufus was able to sniff out trouble and officers were able to advise young people of the dangers and consequences of the use of illegal substances.    

On Thursday, May 19, Rufus joined officers from Warrington Local Policing Unit conducting licensing visits at six premises in the town centre. 

These visits continued on the Friday when seven licensing visits were carried out.

One man was arrested on suspicion of possession with intent to supply drugs after a significant amount of cash, and substances believed to be cocaine and cannabis were recovered inside one of the bars. 

He has since been bailed pending further police enquiries.

Police say at this time there is no information to suggest that the premises was linked to this activity.

Rufus has been funded by the Warrington Community Safety Partnership and other partners including Warrington Pub Watch and Warrington Collegiate. 

Police say Rufus has been proving to be a key tool in the continuing fight to combat illegal drugs supply in Warrington.

Richard Spedding, Warrington Community Safety Partnership inspector, said: "Cheshire Police are committed to being here for justice.

"The Community Safety Partnership have supported this commitment by funding the Warrington drugs dog Rufus.

"Now that he and his handler are fully operational we are starting to see some excellent results that will continue to disrupt the supply of controlled drugs across Warrington.

"The deployment of Rufus into such settings as the night time economy and educational establishments will also act as a significant deterrent to others."