AN investigation has been launched after a pug puppy was bought with fake notes.

The two people who bought the dog have been arrested and the cash seized.

But thankfully it was a happy ending for the pug, named Gary, who was adopted by serving officer, PC Bradley Stadler.

The dog was advertised for sale in the Friday Ad by a breeder from Laughton.

A couple contacted the 75-year-old woman and texts were exchanged before the sale was agreed.

The couple went to the breeders home on December 1 and paid £500 for the puppy.

But when the breeder took the cash to NatWest in Uckfield she was told the notes were fake.

Officers launched an investigation and on December 5 two people were arrested at two addresses in St Leonards.

A 20-year-old woman was arrested on suspicion of fraud by false representation and a 20-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of theft and controlling a thing knowing it was a counterfeit currency note.

Both people are from St Leonards and have been bailed until January 16.

PC Rachel Harding said: "The swift actions of all officers involved ensured we managed to find the puppy.

"A serving officer, PC Bradley Stadler, fell in love with the puppy and has since bought him, obviously with genuine money. He has named him Gary and has given him a loving home.

"Our investigation is continuing."