Winners crowned at national dog trials

Police dogs from across the country were confronted by dangerous armed criminals, unruly crowds and meticulous judges as they competed in the 61^st annual National Police Dog Trials.

Twenty-one dogs and their handlers gathered in Nottinghamshire between Wednesday and Saturday last week as they were tested in tracking, searching, criminal work and obedience.

Participants each took part in a crowd control test at police HQ on day one, before each rotating between other disciplines on the following three days.

Competition locations included a farm near Southwell, the old Fire and Rescue headquarters in Bestwood, and Wollaton Hall, where members of the public were also invited to watch.

Police Dog Belle and her handler PC Pete Flinn, of Avon and Somerset Police, were crowned as overall winners after exemplary performances in each discipline.

Second place went to Police Dog Amber and PC Scott McMaster from Police Scotland.

Third place went to Police Dog Nessa and PC Sue West, representing both Sussex and Surrey Police.

Nottinghamshire duo Police Dog Reno and PC Chris Duffy were recognised as the best turned out duo

Inspector Tim Ringer, in charge of Nottinghamshire Police’s dog section, said: “It was a real privilege for us to hold this event and I was delighted to welcome colleagues from all corners of the country.

“The standard of competition this year was extremely high, and I know from the judges that picking a winner was not easy.

“The police dogs and their handlers play a unique role in keeping the public safe, but they are also relatively few in number.

“So, whilst this event was about identifying the very best partnerships in the country, it was also about sharing knowledge with colleagues, learning new skills and making new friends.

“I would like to thank everyone who took part and everyone who helped to make this event a success.”

This year’s trials are sponsored by Royal Canin, Timberbuild Dog Kennels, Rawcut Media and ACS (Animal Care Services Midlands).