FIREFIGHTERS gained a temporary new recruit when they went on a training exercise on the moors above Bolton.

Four legged friend Skippy bounded along and made a bid to join the ranks of Blue Watch as they trained in their off-road fire engine near Egerton.

The black and white border collie pup was befriended by firefighters James Bracegirdle and Anthony Finney as the exercise came to an end at Valentine's Quarry, off Longworth Road.

The crew gave Skippy a ride in the back of the fire engine and visited local farms to see if anyone knew where the young pup belonged. But no one recognised the dog.

Firefighter Bracegirdle said: "We called him Skippy because he came bouncing across to us.

"He seemed a bit frightened at first but is very good natured and friendly. He looks like he's been looked after and well fed but there was no identity tag on to say who owned him."

Skippy was taken back to Bolton North fire station, Crompton Way, and fed before Blue Watch said goodbye and Skippy was taken to Bolton Destitute Animal Shelter.

Mr Bracegirdle said: "Somebody might recognise the dog. Otherwise hopefully it will get a good new home."

The shelter can be contacted on Bolton 526486.

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