WEST Mercia Police is appealing for new recruits with a nose for detective work to help in the fight against crime.

New four-legged recruits canine cops are needed urgently by the force's dog section across Herefordshire, Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin and Worcestershire after a spate of retirements.

Retired

Sergeant Dave Lee, head of the dog section, said: "Six of our general purpose police dogs have recently retired and we need to replace them as quickly as possible."

Around 70 police dogs, including German and Belgian Shepherds, spaniels, Labradors and a border collie, now work across the six divisions of the force. Most are trained for general-purpose police work, with others specialised in searching for drugs, firearms and explosives.

Sgt Lee said: "We are particularly keen to hear from anyone who may be willing to donate a German shepherd dog or other breeds such as Rottweiler or Belgian shepherd.

"We are looking for bitches and dogs, aged between 10 months and two years, to join the force as general purpose police dogs. They will be trained to work in searching, tracking and public order situations, helping officers locate missing people, property and offenders.

"The dogs need to have a lively personality and should not be nervous in any way."

Fighting crime

Dogs will be teamed up with one of the force's 38 experienced dog handlers for a 10-week training course at force headquarters, Hindlip Hall, near Worcester, before going out across the force area to help in the fight against crime.

Sgt Lee added: "Anyone who may be able to help us in our search for new recruits should contact the dog section on 01905 723000, extension 2291."