A rookie tobacco detection dog has helped Trading Standards officers uncover more than 31,000 illegal cigarettes during a major operation across Hertfordshire.

Fred, a newly trained Springer Spaniel, joined enforcement officers on patrol as part of a week-long crackdown targeting the illicit tobacco trade in five Hertfordshire towns. His keen sense of smell led officers to hidden stashes of illegal tobacco products concealed in retail premises across the county.

The operation, led by Hertfordshire Trading Standards and supported by HMRC-funded Operation CeCe, resulted in the seizure of more than 31,000 illicit cigarettes and 3.35kg of hand-rolling tobacco. The products were recovered from shops in Watford, Hatfield, Borehamwood, Potters Bar and Bishop's Stortford.

Officers said some of the tobacco products were hidden using sophisticated concealment methods designed to evade detection, but Fred proved more than a match for the criminals.

Councillor Ajanta Hilton, Hertfordshire County Council's Executive Member for Public Health and Community Safety, praised the operation.

She said: "Criminals are going to extraordinary lengths to hide illegal tobacco, but thanks to detection dogs and the dedication of our officers, they're being exposed."

The seizure forms part of Operation CeCe, a national initiative aimed at disrupting the illegal tobacco market and protecting legitimate businesses.

According to National Trading Standards, the operation has removed more than 102 million illegal cigarettes and over 20 tonnes of hand-rolling tobacco from sale across the UK since launching in 2021.

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Fred, supplied by specialist detection company Wagtail UK, was taking part in his first major enforcement operation and quickly demonstrated why sniffer dogs remain a key weapon in the fight against illicit tobacco sales.

Hertfordshire County Council said anyone who suspects illegal tobacco sales in their area should report concerns to Trading Standards.