Hat-trick heroes: Devon & Cornwall Police dogs dominate regional stage

Devon & Cornwall Police dog section has come out top of the pack at the Regional Police Dog Trials 2026, securing an impressive first, second and third place against strong competition during a three-day event in Cleveland. 

Hosted by Avon & Somerset Police, the event took place between 26 and 28 February and saw highly trained police dog teams from Devon & Cornwall, Dorset, Avon & Somerset and South Wales Police be tested across a series of demanding scenarios designed to mirror real operational policing. 

Across three challenging phases, handlers and their dogs demonstrated the standards required of licensed police dogs, including tracking and property searches, building and open-land searches for suspects, emergency recalls and controlled “criminal work” scenarios such as pursuits, stand-offs and simulated attacks. Teams competed for a maximum of 1,000 points, with 700 required to qualify for the National Police Dog Trials. 

Sergeant Victoria Ritchie from Devon & Cornwall Police Dog Section said: “I am incredibly proud of all the handlers and their dogs. The dedication, commitment and professionalism they demonstrate day in, day out is reflected in these results.  

“Competing at regional level can be challenging, working under pressure, in front of judges and peers, in scenarios that don’t always go exactly to plan. Each of our handlers showed resilience, skill and an excellent partnership with their dogs throughout the three days.

“All three teams delivered outstanding performances across the trials, securing first, second and third place. This is a remarkable achievement and a real testament to the high standards our dog section maintains, both on the trials field and in live operational policing.”

Devon & Cornwall was represented by three dog teams: 

PC John Warren and PD Albert took 1st place with 835 points, also winning the overall winners trophy, obedience trophy, criminal work trophy, phase 3 overall trophy and top new team at regional trials.  

PC Noah Tilley and PD Gus secured 2nd place with 807 points, also taking home the tracking trophy and phase 1 overall trophy.  

PC Luke Barnard and PD Sid finished 3rd with 804 points, also receiving recognition for the strongest bite during the criminal work phase. 

The narrow margins between scores highlighted the exceptionally high standard of competition across all participating forces. All three Devon & Cornwall teams qualified for the National Police Dog Trials, which will be held in West Yorkshire between 14–16 May 2026. Notably, this was the first time each of the teams had competed at regional level and they will now go on to represent the Force on the national stage.  

Devon & Cornwall Police congratulates the handlers and their dogs on their outstanding achievement and wishes them the very best of luck at the Nationals.