AN OPEN area mountain search dog who retired has died.

Search and Rescue Dogs Association (SARDA Wales) posted on Facebook that Spin retired in January last year to enjoy some time with her family.

The post on April 4 stated: "It is with great sadness we have to report retired Open Area Mountain Search Dog Spin has passed away. Our thoughts are with her handler Sally and her family.

"Spin, along with Sally had a distinguished ten year career with SARDA Wales, attending numerous searches and locating six missing people.

"She also represented SARDA on television and with families of missing people.

"Spin retired in January last year to enjoy some time with her family, helping with the lambing, pottering around the mountains and playing a bit of football.

"She had an amazing life achieving so much, helping so many, she won't be forgotten.

"Spin is now resting, keeping a watchful eye over the mountains of North Wales."

SARDA Wales is a specialist Search Dog component of Mountain Rescue (England and Wales). They are a voluntary association who rely entirely on charitable donations.