TRIBUTES have been paid to a former police dog who was 'a force to be reckoned with'.

The Cheshire and North Wales Police Dogs unit is a collaboration between North Wales Police and Cheshire Constabulary to provide general purpose, firearms support and specialist search dogs.

These furry friends support officers' ranging policing activities – from tackling serious and organised crime to helping bring vulnerable people back to a place of safety.

Specialist search dogs within the unit, which has over 40 dogs, are also trained to detect firearms, ammunition, cash and drugs.

Over the weekend, the unit paid tribute to one of its retired friends who has sadly passed away.

Nitro, a Dutch Herder, was described as a 'force to be reckoned with' by those who knew him best as their Police Dog (PD).

A statement from the unit read: "It’s with a heavy heart we share with you the passing of retired PD Nitro.

Chester and District Standard: PIC: The dogs unit has paid tribute to former PD Nitro.

"Nitro was a force to be reckoned with and always made his presence felt.. but when he wasn’t working he liked to show his softer side to those around him.

"He had a happy retirement with his handler & loving family and will be dearly missed. Thank you for your service Nitro."

Nitro stepped down from the unit in October 2021, when he and handler PC Jones were both said to have 'served with distinction' and left behind 'huge paws and boots to fill'.