A Plymouth police officer and his pioneering crime-fighting dog are set to take to the green carpet at Crufts after being shortlisted for a major national award.
PC Martin King, 59, who has served with Devon and Cornwall Police for 38 years, will travel to the NEC in Birmingham with his 10-year-old springer spaniel Tweed after she was named one of five finalists in the Royal Kennel Club Hero Dog Award.
Tweed made history in 2017 when she became the first dog in Europe trained to detect hidden digital devices such as mobile phones and storage equipment. Since then, she has supported investigations across Devon and Cornwall and beyond, helping officers locate concealed technology during more than 1,200 warrants.
Her pioneering work has contributed to serious crime investigations and helped safeguard vulnerable people, with the force among the first in the UK to introduce specialist digital detection dogs.
Behind the operational success, however, is a quieter story of resilience. Tweed arrived for training after a difficult early upbringing, having spent long periods confined and showing signs of anxiety. PC King worked patiently to build her confidence, helping her adapt to the demands of search work that require dogs to climb, explore and think independently. Over time, the pair developed a close working bond that has underpinned her success.
Now approaching retirement, Tweed’s career is being recognised on the national stage. PC King, who is recovering from recent prostate cancer surgery, said he was “blown away” by the nomination and is determined to make the journey to Crufts with her.
The Hero Dog Award will be decided by a public vote, with the winner announced on the final day of Crufts.
