DOG lovers in Halton are being asked to help Jake and Alfie in their fight against crime.

Jake, a one-year-old German Shepherd, and Alfie, a four-and-a-half year old Cocker Spaniel, are police dogs who cover Runcorn, Widnes and Warrington.

New police dogs are needed for the start of a training course in September for a new dog handler to cover Halton alone.

PC John Reed, of the dog co-ordination unit, said: "Widnes has been a good source of dogs for us in the past.

"We got Jake from a chap from Hough Green. He completed his training exceptionally fast.

"The new dogs go away for basic training, for tracking, searching, obedience and loads more."

The force is looking for dogs that are around eight to ten months old.

They want dogs that are bold and intelligent, bright and inquisitive.

They prefer German Shepherds but will look at any dog that has the drive and energy needed for police work.

Supply

PC Reed said: "Without the public we wouldn't get the supply of dogs that we do.

"The dogs do valuable work for the police. For example, at addresses in Widnes, Alfie has found cocaine, amphetamines and ecstasy.

"Jake has tracked people from stolen cars and he has caught a lot of people for a young dog, he is doing very well.

"He is even being considered for fire-arms training."

To donate suitable dogs, contact Sgt Neil Brown or Sgt Sue Whyatt on 01270-610954.

Picture: PPC John Reed with Jake and AlfieC John Reed with