SEARCH dog handler Christyne Judge has paid tribute to her late and dearly loved Border Collie, Skye, and the "incredible bond" they shared for almost 17 years.

Skye was well known in the Lake District thanks to his work with teams such as Langdale and Ambleside Mountain Rescue Team, as well as visits to schools, Women's Institutes, Young Farmers' clubs and nursing homes, giving demonstrations of his search skills.

Skye's handler Christine, who lives in Hawkshead, told the Gazette: "Skye was very special to me; we had an incredible bond. He was most definitely one of a kind.

MORE TOP STORIES:

"We spent many hours together walking on the fells, running, biking and camping, and of course many hours training and working. He made me so very proud.

"My current search dog, Bute, learnt so much from him and they too had a very good relationship with never a cross word (or snarl).

"We had the chance to spend the last few days together and as far I am aware he did not suffer. Skye had a great life and I feel very privileged to have had almost 17 years with him. He enriched my life."

Christine, a police officer and member of Coniston Mountain Rescue Team, said that Skye came from a farm in the Duddon Valley. He took to search and rescue training "very easily and very quickly" and made three significant finds before retiring due to injury, aged nine.

On one memorable occasion, Skye's barking led rescuers to a man stuck overnight on a crag in the Langdales with no torch. The walker was found safe and well.

"You develop an extremely strong bond, the two of you working quite often on your own in foul weather in the dark," said Christine. "You depend and rely on each other, and they become your best friend."

A past member of LAMRT, Christine said that Skye was passionate about rescue, and would "work for hours just for a squeaky toy" or tennis ball. She said she was grateful for the chance to say her goodbyes during Skye's final days. "I will never forget him. He could never be replaced."