South Ayrshire Council has been working with partners of the four-legged kind to clamp down on the sale of illicit cigarettes and tobacco to under 18s.

Springer spaniel Dixie has tracked down a number of illicit cartons of cigarettes with foreign labelling which did not comply with plain packaging and health warning requirements.

The cigarettes were seized and a fine issued for breaches of the legislation.

Investigations are continuing into alleged tobacco labelling offences so further action could be taken.

Councillor Ian Cochrane, sustainability and environment portfolio holder for South Ayrshire Council said: "We are continuing to work with our partners to stamp out illegal underage sales and protect people from illicit tobacco products.

"The message is clear, if you fail to comply with tobacco legislation and are selling to under 18's, you will be caught and you could face prison."