A MOUNTAIN rescue team is busy training up their latest prospective member.

Poppy, an 11-month-old Springer Spaniel, is going through the rigorous Search and Rescue Dog Association (SARDA) before she can take up a full time role with the Cleveland Mountain Rescue team.

The dog, along with her owner and handler Richard Oldham, will spend two years in training before she becomes a fully registered SARDA dog and can then get involved with other Team members in search and rescue activity.

During that time she will have to pass a number of exams and the duo will have to travel throughout the UK to train with other dogs.

Although very much a family pet the team are hopeful Poppy will become a valuable asset for them during operations.

Malcolm Selby, the team leader, said: “Everyone in the Team will be watching their progress and wishing them well in the challenges they will have to overcome.”