Paw-some team on duty to keep South Yorkshire safe on Christmas Day

Despite having to work through the holidays for the first time, PD Benson has been on duty to keep everyone safe this Christmas Day and looks forward to his treats as soon as his shift ends.

The three-year-old Dutch Herder will be joined by his handler PC Mike Greaves, starting their shift at the Operational Support Complex.

PC Greaves said: “Me and Benson have been working together since 2018 and today is his first Christmas Day on duty. I have been a police officer for many years, so it’s not my first!

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“He knows the difference between me being in uniform and being out of uniform. As soon as he recognises it’s work time, he is very excited, especially when his best friends PD Kiki and PD Willow are on duty.

“He loves using his nose and tracking criminals, this is how he has caught the majority of his prisoners this year, he also loves searching for stolen property; his nose is amazing!

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“As soon as we have finished, it will be home for celebrations and Benson loves nothing more than attention, a cuddle and food.

“We wish everyone across South Yorkshire a merry Christmas.”

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In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Nancy Fielder, editor.