LONDON (TIP): Brewster, the longest serving police dog in the UK whose “incredible nose” detected drugs, cash and weapons across the country, has died after a brief illness following 11 years of service.

The 13-year-old, 91 in dog years, brown and white English Springer Spaniel, served with the Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Hertfordshire Dog Unit with his handler Police Constable Dave Pert.

But just months after formally hanging up his lead, the police pooch has passed away following a short illness, the Daily Express reported.

“We are so grateful that Brewster came into our lives. He was truly a legendary dog, renowned across the three counties for his incredible nose,” Pert said while paying tributes to his long-term companion.

“Indeed, officers were still requesting his services long after he retired. He was a brilliant asset to the unit and I am glad he had time with us to enjoy his retirement,” he said. Pert said he loved coming with them in the caravan and particularly enjoyed people watching.

“Thankfully his illness was brief, but we will miss him terribly as he was a huge part of our lives,” he said. Brewster was gifted to the police after his previous owners from North Yorkshire realized he had too much energy for them.

Within three weeks of earning his stripes, the naturally inquisitive canine was fully trained and licensed as a drugs, cash and weapons detection dog. (AP)