A NEWLY operational search dog, Bramble, and her handler Andrew, made an impressive debut by finding a missing woman on their first callout.

The rescue, near Keswick, was initially coordinated by Keswick Mountain Rescue Team (KMRT), then escalated to the Lake District Search and Mountain Rescue Association (LDSAMRA).

On Wednesday evening, LDSAMRA alerted search dog handlers based in the North East Search & Rescue Association (NESRA) region.

A number of search dogs and their handlers responded to the call, including Bramble and Andrew, assembling at 8am the next morning.

After searching in harsh conditions, Bramble located the missing woman in a difficult woodland area on Latrigg's lower slopes.

Hexham Courant: Rescue dog Bramble enjoying a well-deserved restRescue dog Bramble enjoying a well-deserved rest (Image: Northumberland National Park Mountain Rescue Team)

Bramble, a five-year-old English shepherd, is the latest qualified search dog for the Northumberland National Park Mountain Rescue Team.

Team leader Iain Nixon said: "This is a tremendous result for all involved.

"Bramble's first operational find marks an impressive start to what promises to be a distinguished career in search and rescue."