Tributes to fearless award-winning police dog

A police dog who won a bravery award after surviving a machete attack has died.

Stark had spent six years with West Midlands Police but had recently retired along with his handler Paul Hopley

The eight-year-old German Shepherd had died following a short illness police said, adding the force was "deeply saddened" by the loss.

Mr Hopley said Stark meant the world to him and his wife Michelle, describing him as a "highly-driven" and "fearless" police dog. The dog had been injured in 2020 when he was hit and slashed with a machete more than 20 times while responding to a break-in at allotments in Handsworth, Birmingham.

He managed to keep hold of the suspect despite the attack and a 17-year-old boy was later sentenced to a detention order over the incident.

Despite his injuries, Stark returned to work a few months later and found a wanted man on his first shift back.

"It has been an honour being his handler. He made me immensely proud every single day and I'm thankful we got to enjoy our retirement together," Mr Hopley said.

"He will leave a huge paw-shaped hole in our hearts."

In 2021, Stark and Mr Hopley were given an outstanding bravery award by police dog charity Thin Blue Paw in recognition of their courage during the attack.

He was also a firm favourite at Crufts where he would show off his skills and was also where he retired earlier this year.

Follow BBC Birmingham on BBC Sounds, Facebook, X and Instagram.