A rescue dog, cared for and rehomed by the RSPCA, is to receive a bravery award and medallion from the charity after halting a sex attack.

Jake, a two and a half year old Rottweiler cross, was nominated for the award by police after he chased off a man who was molesting a woman on Hearsall Common in Coventry last July. Jake saw off the attacker then stayed with the distraught victim until the police arrived. The attacker has since been convicted of serious sexual assault and jailed for four years.

Rehomed by Ian and Liz Maxted-Bluck from RSPCA Coventry Animal Home in December 2008, Jake will receive the award in recognition of his actions which prevented a life-threatening situation and the medallion in recognition of his alertness to danger. The award will be presented on Saturday at the RSPCA Wales & West Regional Conference at Prostar Stadium in

Shrewsbury, the home of Shrewsbury Town Football Club.

Jake's owner said: "He is such a lovely natured dog and is very nosey so I think that was why he went to investigate that day when he heard the screams. After I called the police he stayed alert and close to us like he was guarding us.

"It is brilliant that he is receiving this award from the RSPCA, I am really proud. It is especially touching because we got him from the RSPCA.  As soon as I saw him that December in the kennels I wanted him. Rottweilers don't always get good publicity so it is great to see a Rottweiler being recognised in such a positive way," said Liz.

DC Clive Leftwich, based at Coventry Police station's public protection unit, nominated Jake for the award and will attend on Saturday to see the award presented. He said: "From our point of view Jake the Rottweiler stopped a serious sexual assault from becoming even worse. The dog frightened off the attacker and stayed at the scene until we arrived."

Glenn Mayoll, Manager of RSPCA Coventry Animal Centre said: "We are also immensely proud of Jake and this story just goes to show that a rescue dog can be a great addition to any family.  Certain breeds of dogs, such as Rottweiler's, often stay too long in rescue kennels but I really cannot stress enough that dogs should never be judged simply by their breed and Jake certainly proves this point.  It is wonderful that Jake is now part of a loving, caring family and that his brave actions are being recognised."

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