TRIBUTES have been flooding in for a popular dog, dubbed 'head of security' at a Hereford gift shop.

Nell, a Jack Russell Terrier, was often sat on top of the counter at Off The Wall in St. Peter’s Street.

The shop’s owners, Derek and Ginny Elsmere, have been overwhelmed by comments from customers and keeping the pair in their thoughts.

Ginny Elsmere said: “We’ve had customers and reps in tears, she used to grumble at men, grumble more at men with hats, and even more at men with hats and sticks.

“A lot of our regulars are older ladies, and they used to come in with treats for her.

"One lady brought a young girl who was afraid of dogs and used Nell to help her get used to dogs.

“We’ve been overwhelmed by the number of people who have come in and said they’re sorry to hear about her.”

The search is now on for another dog to become Head of Security, but Ginny said that it’s difficult to find one who will be comfortable around shoppers.

Customers of the gift shop were upset by the news when it was announced last week that Nell had been put to sleep because of a tumour on the liver.

There were almost 100 comments on the shop’s Facebook page as people sent their thoughts to Derek and Ginny and one customer said Nell was just part of the shop.

Fiona Catherineau said: “Bless her. Nell was a gorgeous little dog. (She was) part of the fixture and fittings, except a Monday when she’d rather still be chilling at home.

"I hope you are both taking comfort that she was loved by so many.”