South Wales Police Dog Section Scoop First Prize at the Emergency Services Show 2010
Members of the South Wales Police Dog Section stole the show at this year's South West Police Dog Trials.
The event, which was held during the Emergency Services Show, took place at Hullanvington Airfield near Chippenham on the 12th September.
Seven forces from across the south-west region competed for the top dog spot.
The canines and handlers from the force impressed judges enough to steal first prize, whilst the British Transport Police Dog Section came overall second.
Firearms Support Unit in action
SWP Dog Section celebrates success of 50th Anniversary Media Open Day
The Dog Section welcomed some special guests from the media yesterday as officers celebrated 50 years of canine crime fighting.
Journalists from across Wales were treated to demonstrations and talks from the handlers throughout Thursday morning.
Chief Constable Peter Vaughan attended the event, and congratualted the handlers and trainers of the section for their outstanding achievements over the years.
The VIP guest for the day's event was 13 year old Lois Fish, who aspires to become a handler when she grows up. Commenting on the her visit to the Dog School, Lois stated: "I've really enjoyed my day- out of ten, I'd give it one hundred! I love being around dogs, and today has made me even more determined to be a handler."
Inspector Mark Hobrough said that the Media Open Day had been "a great success for all involved."
BBC Wales, HTV and S4C will be running footage of the event over the coming week. Keep your eyes peeled for the action!
Visit our picture gallery to see snaps of the Media Open Day.
SWP Dog Section celebrates 50th anniversary
Tails will be wagging today as the Dog Section celebrates 50 years of canine crime fighting.
The Dog Training School first opened its doors on the 23rd August 1960, when four German Shepherd pups arrived from Edinburgh City Police. The dogs - Bruce, Bess, Carl and Cora – quickly adapted to their new working lives as the Force’s first general purpose animals.
Indeed, at just 6-months-old and only partially trained, Carl was responsible for the arrest of three men stealing Christmas Trees in Tonyrefail during December 1960. Similarly, Bess gave an indication to her handler which resulted in the arrest of a man in Maesteg on a charge of breaking and entering, whilst she was still under a year old.
Sergeant Ian Roderick commented on his career working with the animals:
“The dogs actually become part of your family, and the bond you develop with them is second to none.”
The Dog Section held a special press launch for the anniversary last Thursday, which was attended by journalists from across Wales- including the BBC, ITV and S4C.
Chief Constable Peter Vaughan also attended the event to watch the dogs in action during a variety of demonstrations. The Chief said:
“This year heralds a significant date in the history of the South Wales Police Force, as the Dog Section celebrates its 50th anniversary. As former ACPO Chair for the Police Dog Working Group, I am particularly proud of the extraordinary achievements of our Training School over the years.“
“The dog has become a vital and loyal asset of the policing team, and continues to play a crucial role in helping us to keep South Wales safe. I would like to take this opportunity to thank the Officers of the Dog Section, both past and present, for their hard work and commitment. I have no doubt that the excellent reputation of our Dog Unit will continue to grow far into the future.”