Three police dog and handler teams will soon be protecting the streets of Essex after completing their training.

The police dogs and their handlers passed out during a ceremony at the dog section in Chelmsford on Monday.

Over the last thirteen weeks the pairs have been learning to track, search for suspects, enforce public order, detain suspects and other skills which are vital for their roles.

PC Andy Gaw, course instructor, said: “This is a thorough training course which has put the dog handlers and their dogs through their paces.

“We’re very much looking forward to them starting their operational duties next week.”

The newly licensed police dogs and their handlers are PC Tony Mayo with PD Dylan, PC Graham Nuth with PD Axel and PC Nick Hayter with PD Vin.

The three dog handlers are now fully licenced and will be on operational duties from next week.

Dog Section Inspector Brad Dickel said: “We’re very pleased to be welcoming our three newly licensed police dogs into the Dog Section.

“The training they have received has been exceptionally delivered by our trainers and will prepare them for their duties as police officers and police dogs.

“We look forward to them developing together and supporting the fight against crime in Essex.”