A HERO police dog handler and his trusty German Shepherd have received a special accolade for their bravery and courage.

Pc Steve Jay and his police dog Aman sustained stab wounds during an incident in Nacton Road on October 25.

The duo’s professionalism and courage was recognised by the Ipswich Star when they were awarded a Special Recognition gong at the Stars of Suffolk ceremony in November.

Now the pair have another accolade under their belt after they were honoured with The Police Dog Action and Humanitarian Action of the Year at Crufts yesterday.

Pc Jay, a police officer for 29 years, suffered knife wounds to his arm and back during the incident, while six-year-old Aman needed emergency surgery.

Aman’s life was said to have been saved by the swift actions of Pc Jay’s colleagues who took the German shepherd to Highcliff Veterinary Practice in Cliff Lane, Ipswich, where a vet’s team operated on him to staunch the loss of blood.

Pc Jay previously told of his delight at being honoured at the annual dog show.

He said: “I’m absolutely chuffed to bits. I wasn’t even aware someone had put us forward for it.

“It is an honour. There are a lot of dog handlers throughout the country. To be picked is quite humbling.”