Surrey Police dogs set for centre stage

The Surrey police dog trials will form part of a Family Day at Mount Browne, Guildford, which begins at 11am.

A range of activities will be on offer to visitors, with the dogs taking centre stage during the trials, with dog handlers test their skills and training as they vie for a number of trophies including the coveted Anna of Avondale overall winner’s trophy.

Anna, a German Shepherd captured in the Second World War, was Surrey’s first police dog. She came to Surrey in 1947 with her trainer who transferred from the Metropolitan Police.

Members of the public will be able to watch the expertise of the officers and their dogs for the first time since the late 1990s, when the decision was taken to hold the once public trials in-house because of budget restraints.

Chief Constable Mark Rowley said: "We are delighted that once again we will be able to welcome the public, as well as our own staff and their families, to Surrey Police Headquarters for what promises to be a wonderful day out for all.

"In addition to neighbourhood policing teams and the operational side of policing, such as the helicopter and dog handlers that Surrey residents are already familiar with, there are a lot more officers and staff working to tackle the less visible threats in the county to help keep people safe and have confidence in Surrey Police, some of whom will be at the event.

"I hope everyone enjoys the day, which has been made possible by using the proceeds of our Headquarters Cedar Bar, closed some time ago."

A free Park and Ride service will operate on the day from Artington (on the A3100 between Guildford and Farncombe) and entry to the Dog Trials and Family Day, which ends at 5pm, is free, with voluntary donations to the Chief Constable’s Charity, the Woking Hospice, welcome.

Refreshments will be available to buy at the event and well-behaved dogs, kept on the lead, are invited to accompany responsible owners to enjoy the day’s activities.