Handlers and their dogs bring home the silverware from the National Police Dog Trials

Police Scotland’s PC Magnus McGarry and police dog Kim were crowned the overall winners at the  64th National Police Dog Trials.

May 20, 2026
By Paul Jacques
PC Magnus McGarry and PD Kim of Police Scotland

Dundee-based PC McGarry and PD Kim were were also awarded the William Palfrey Trophy for best criminal work, and the Alex Memorial Trophy for obedience and criminal work.

Police Scotland colleague PC Niall Gibson and PD Mary, based in Glasgow, were awarded the Sir James Starritt Trophy. PD Mary also received the Stanley Peck Trophy, which is awarded to the most obedient dog.

Police Scotland Inspector Gail Fitzpatrick said: “To secure a spot at this prestigious event is an honour, but to come home as the overall winner and with three trophies is truly a great achievement.

“This competition recognises the skill and discipline of the canines as well as the special relationship between officer and dog.

“We are very proud of PC McGarry and PC Gibson, as well as of PDs Kim and Mary.”

Hosted by West Yorkshire Police, the trials brought together the very best police dog handlers and their canine companions from across the UK to show their skills.

A total of 21 police dogs from forces across the country took part in the trials, competing in a series of challenging disciplines designed to test their operational capabilities.

These included tracking suspects using scent, searching buildings and open areas, and criminal work phases involving suspect apprehension, obedience and agility.

The final day attracted large crowds, with visitors able to see the incredible ability, control and partnership between the dogs and their handlers for themselves.

Alongside the competition, attendees enjoyed demonstrations from police dogs, the mounted unit, and other specialist departments from across the force, while partner emergency services and sponsors also had stalls at the event.

Assistant Chief Constable Robert McCoubrey said: “The National Police Dog Trials have been a fantastic success, and we are incredibly proud to have hosted such a prestigious event here in West Yorkshire.

“The standard of competition has been exceptional, showcasing the dedication, discipline and skill of both the dogs and their handlers from across the UK. My congratulations go to the winners and all those who took part.

“It was also a wonderful opportunity to welcome the public to Nostell and give them a closer look at the vital role police dogs play in keeping our communities safe. The support and enthusiasm we have seen throughout the event has been outstanding.”

The trials not only highlighted the operational excellence of police dog units, but also reinforced their importance in modern policing, from locating missing persons to apprehending offenders and recovering evidence.

West Yorkshire Police said it is grateful to all participating forces, organisers, sponsors, volunteers and members of the public who contributed to making the event such a success.

Full list of winners:

The Jordan Shield – overall winner of the competition

Winners – PC Magnus McGarry & PD Kim, Police Scotland.

The City of London Trophy for the Police Dog attaining the second highest mark of the championship

Winners – PC Noah Tilley and PD Gus, Devon & Cornwall Police.

The Sir James Starritt Trophy for the Police Dog attaining the third highest marks of the championship

Winners – PC Niall Gibson and PD Mary, Police Scotland.

The Stanley Peck Trophy for the best obedience

Winners – PC Niall Gibson and PD Mary, Police Scotland.

The William Palfrey Trophy for the best criminal work

Winners  – PC Magnus McGarry and PD Kim, Police Scotland.

The Joseph Simpson Trophy for the best tracking dog on the long track

Winners – PC Darren Barnard & PD Kylo, Essex Police.

The Commander Willis Trophy for the best searching dog

Winners – PC Tim Elliott and PD Rafe, Metropolitan Police Service.

The Brigadier Rymer-Jones Trophy for the one and half hour track and searching

Winners – PC Tim Elliott and PD Rafe, Metropolitan Police Service.

The Alex Memorial Trophy for obedience and criminal work

Winners – PC Magnus McGarry and PD Kim, Police Scotland.

The Morton Trophy for the best turned out handler and dog team

Winners – PC Martin Hunter and PD Ace, Metropolitan Police Service.

The National Foundation for Retired Service Animals (NFRSA) Trophy: Award for outstanding enthusiasm and the greatest determination throughout the trial

Winners – PC John Warren and PD Albert, Devon and Cornwall Police.

Related News

Select Vacancies

Chief Constable

Suffolk Constabulary

Chief Constable - Essex Police

Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner for Essex

Assistant Chief Constables

Scottish Police Authority

Assistant Chief Constable

Ministry of Defence Police

Assistant Chief Constable

Cleveland Police

Chief Constable

Warwickshire Police

Copyright © 2026 Police Professional