Fidget and Kruga are named as top dogs from Essex Police trials

Pc Andy Gaw with Kruga (Image: Archant)

Fidget and Kruga came out best at the force’s own trials within its dog unit section.

Pc Paul Nicholls with Fidget, at Essex Police (Image: Archant)

Each year Essex Police dogs and their handlers compete for trophies in obedience, tracking, searching and bite work at the unit in Sandon.

A total of 11 officers and their German Shepherds took part in the friendly trials on non-operational training days over a two-week period.

Four trophies were up for grabs in all in competitions testing a range of different skills used in their front-line work.

The winners were announced at a ceremony last Thursday.

Pc Nicholls and Fidget won the tracking trophy, Pc Gaw and Kruga were named best in obedience, Ps David Box and Rio claimed the trophy for bite work and Pc Paul Arthey and Kobi finished top in searching.

Pc Nicholls and Fidget were named overall winners with Pc Gaw and Kruga taking second place.

Both teams will now go on to represent Essex Police at the regional police dog trials, taking place in Suffolk next month.

Pc Arthey and Kobi claimed third prize in the trials.

Inspector Brad Dickel from the dog unit said: “The importance of the force dog trials cannot be underestimated.

“They are an excellent way of ensuring only the highest of standards across the board as officers search for excellence.

“Handlers forge an excellent working relationship with their dogs and it is only right that both get the chance to sell the hard work and effort placed into everyday operations and patrol.

“The dog section continues to provide proactive support to local policing 365 days a year and will continue to support front-line bobbies in making Essex a safe place to live.”

“Big congratulations go to everyone who took part and the best of luck to Fidget and Kruga at the regionals.”