SOME of Police Scotland's best behaved pooches have been given top awards in a national contest.

The National Police Dog Trials took place in King's Park, Stirling over the bank holiday weekend.

Glenthrothes-based canine Nevis, and his trainer Police Constable Stephen Randall, scooped second place in the contest while representing Scotland's national force.

PC Randall and Nevis also won individual categories for best criminal work and best combined obedience and criminal work.

They were joined by PC Peter Brown and Odin from Larbert, who came fourth overall and PC Mike Petrie and Lotte from Dundee who came 12th.

Disciplined canines from 13 police forces from the UK and Northern Ireland took part in the contest, now in its 55th year, over three days.

It is the first time Police Scotland has hosted the event since the force was created two years ago.

The dogs were tested and judged in three skill sections: trailing suspects, property recovery and running of suspects - for example chasing and catching them.

Chief Superintendent Elaine Ferguson of Police Scotland's Operational Support Division said: "Police Dog Units throughout the United Kingdom and Ireland make a significant contribution to keeping people safe.

"Communities are safer due to the unique skills that Police Dog Units bring to operational policing."

"This event was extremely successful and the standard of competition was exceptionally high."

"I'd like to thank all the competitors and the organising team for their efforts.

"We look forward to hosting further national events such as this in the future."

hannah.rodger@eveningtimes.co.uk