Guide dog Lewis is in the Christmas doghouse.

The five-year-old labrador/retriever cross has a reputation for mischief and scavenging, but now he’s wolfed down £255.

The cash had been collected by Frinton Rotary Club at two charity events – and it was too much of a temptation for the dog with a big appetite.

Lewis, who is guide dog for Claire Webb, of Holland Road, Frinton, shredded some of the money and ate the rest.

Claire’s husband, Gordon, a Rotary member, had taken the money home to count and left it on a coffee table overnight.

Mr Webb said: “I went down in the morning and thought he had just shredded some paper – then I realised what it was: lots of chewed notes.

“I think I lost my voice for two days shouting at him, but we can’t be cross with him for long as he’s just too cute. He gets round us very quickly.”

Meanwhile, nature has taken its course and some pieces of paper have been recovered.

Mr Webb has spoken to the Bank of England, which has promised to try to replace some of the money, so the remains of the notes will be parcelled up after Christmas.

Mr Webb has also promised to underwrite any losses due to his naughty four-legged friend.