FROM searching for missing people in Dorset to an island in the middle of the South Atlantic – Charlie’s CV is impressive.

The four-year-old border collie is part of Dorset Search Dogs and has returned safely from a mission on Ascension Island.

The Ascension Island government requested the help of Dorset Search Dogs when one of the island’s employees went missing shortly before Christmas.

The islanders had carried out a large foot search immediately after Iva Henry disappeared but they were unable to find her.

Charlie and his handler Matt Cooke left RAF Brize Norton in bitter cold conditions last month and landed in Ascension Island eight hours later in the blistering heat.

Search dog Charlie was joined by two blood scenting dogs from Surrey Police and the trio had to travel in the hold of the aircraft.

Matt, chair of Dorset Search Dogs, said the search areas were made up of loose volcanic rock so Charlie wore specially fitted shoes to protect his paws.

He said the team had to start searching early each morning, break during the day and work in the evenings in a bid to beat the heat.

“The terrain was tough going. It was like walking over huge gas barbecue coals. They were jagged and loose. When we went down a slope, half the hillside would follow us down. Luckily Charlie was quick on his feet and looked like he was enjoying it.”

The team covered a large search area but found no clues as to Mrs Henry’s whereabouts. It is now believed she went missing off the coast.

Matt said: “It was an honour to go from a team used to help our local community to be able to help internationally.” All of the team’s expenses were met by the Ascension Island Government.

Dorset Search Dogs is a non-profit voluntary organisation assisting the police, coastguard and other search and rescue teams to look for missing people across the south.