POLICE officers and their four-legged friends have been successful at recent regional assessments in Dorset.

Nine forces from across the South West, Wales and the MOD being put through their paces by assessors from PSNI, Police Scotland and Surrey.

PC Andy Jerreat and PD Elmo who are based at Express Park in Bridgwater, came out on top in the 'criminal category.

Their performance earned them a spot in the upcoming National Police Dog Trials in May.

Meanwhile PC Justin Andrews and three-year-old German Shepherd Monty who are also based at Bridgwater, put in a 'near faultless performance' to be named the top team for tracking, property searches and stand-offs.

Competitors were tested on all areas of operational dog handling including obedience, tracking, searching, public order crowd control and detaining criminals.

Tri-Force specialist operations dogs inspector, Shane Hawkings, said: “I am delighted that the Tri-Force collaboration were represented at this year’s regional assessments and will be competing again at a national level. We have produced national winners in the past.

“The trials not only encourage the pursuit of excellence but provide a fantastic opportunity for the sharing of good practice at a national and regional level.

“They are a demonstration of the high professional standards expected of our dog teams. Well done to all who took part and I wish PC Jarreat and Elmo the very best of luck for May.”

Sergeant Denis McCoy, who is based in Avon and Somerset, has been appointed secretary for the trials.

He said: “The dog trials are a great opportunity for handlers from different forces to come together and build relationships as well as share good practice and continue to improve operational effectiveness.”

You can follow the Avon and Somerset Dog Team at @ASPoliceDogs.