Veteran police dog handler 'honoured' to lift award

PC Stuart and PD Bren were praised for the impact they had last year

A police dog handler has received an award after he and his trusty companion secured 48 arrests this year.

PC Stuart Oram has been named Greater Manchester Police’s tactical dog handler of the year.

Along with his crime-fighting partner PD Bren, the arrests he made were the highest number in the force's tactical dog unit.

PC Oram, who has been with the force for 25 years, praised PD Bren on receiving the Gary Mathison Trophy, saying he was a "fantastic partner".

'Looking bright'

The annual award is named after GMP dog handler Gary Mathieson, who died in 2005, and recognises officers from the unit who deliver "an outstanding performance".

PC Oram said it was a "great honour", adding: "Having known Gary early in my career, it's a privilege to accept this trophy.

"Bren is a fantastic partner and continually surprises me with the results he gets.

"Getting to the national police trials and him still maintaining his work on the streets is outstanding."

PC Oram is also a National Police Chiefs Council instructor, which has seen him train and mentor several new dog handlers.

Insp Michael Weedon said: "PC Oram thoroughly deserves this award and everyone at the tactical dog unit is extremely proud of him and Bren.

"He demonstrates the right attitude and enthusiasm required to be a successful dog handler."

He said the officer was one of the most experienced handlers on the unit and "continues to set high standards," he said.

The inspector added: "Having recently qualified as an instructor, he is now passing his experience and knowledge on to the new handlers and dogs, ensuring the future of the unit is looking bright."