We gathered together to celebrate the very best in British policing at this year’s Thin Blue Paw Awards 2026 – sponsored by Animal Friends Insurance – held at the Kennel Club in London.
Four awards were presented – as well as an outstanding award from 2025 – at the glittering ceremony, attended by heroic dogs, dedicated police officers, celebrities and the most passionate from across the canine world.
BBC journalist and news presenter Rich Preston hosted the ceremony on Tuesday 29th September, and celebrities including Shaun Wallace – also known as The Dark Destroyer from The Chase – as well as Dragon’s Den star Jenny Campbell, Good Morning Britain presenter Charlotte Hawkins, and ITV reporter Lucrezia Millarini.
Cleveland Police’s PC Liam Sewell collected the Beyond Duty Award on behalf of he and his parter Jasper – a Victim Recovery Dog who helped to find the bodies of six missing people during his career.
Then PC Eddie Cabrera and PD Frankie, from Surrey Police, received the Outstanding Bravery Award for their part in safely detaining and arresting a knife-wielding man.
Former West Midlands police officer Marcus Cottrell and RPD Captain – who has been supported by the Foundation for reconstructive spinal surgery and rehabilitation – were presented with the Lifetime Achievement Award.
And PC Daniel Carter, from Kent Police, collected the Crimefighting Duo Award for his outstanding work with partner RPD Boss, before his early retirement due to injury.
Also in attendance were Sgt Craig Roberts and retired MWD Paul, who came to collect the Military Police Dog of the Year Award, from 2025, as they couldn’t attend the previous event due to injury.
Our Founder Kieran Stanbridge said: “Jasper, Frankie, Boss and Captain’s stories really showed the very best of dedication, skill, instinct, courage and resilience.”
Richard Mills, CEO at Animal Friends, said: “Every day, police dogs across the UK put their paws on the line to protect our communities, and it is a true privilege to help shine a spotlight on their extraordinary bravery and unwavering loyalty.”
