Notts Police have refurbished dog kennels at its headquarters in memory of an officer who died.
The force invested to upgrade and modernise the kennels at Sherwood Lodge which have been named after former dog handler, PC Ged Walker, who died working in 2003.
The kennels were today (June 23) unveiled by Chief Constable Craig Guildford, Police and Crime Commissioner Paddy Tipping and Ged’s widow, Tracy.
Mr Guildford said: “Today is a really proud day, to be able to open brand new kennels in memory of someone who was a huge inspiration to the force gives me great pleasure.
“As we know, police dogs are incredibly important for us to support vital investigative and prevention work and we’re grateful that we can invest in this area, as well as ensure that they’re housed and trained in the best possible surroundings.”
PC Walker, 42, died in January 2003 after being dragged 100 yards and fatally injured by a stolen taxi as he attempted to remove the keys from the ignition.
He was on duty in Bulwell and died in hospital two days later from serious head injuries.
Members of Ged’s family, his former colleagues and current dog handlers attended and looked around the new facilities.
The police station in Bulwell, close to where the incident happened, was previously named the Ged Walker Building.
Mr Tipping said: “The welfare of all those who work for Nottinghamshire Police is hugely important and the dogs are no exception.
“With their specialist abilities they are key members of the policing family and now our very hard-working four-legged friends can benefit from these modern, well-equipped kennels and training facilities.
“I’m particularly grateful to Tracy Walker for permitting us to name the new kennel block in her husband’s memory. I know that Ged was held in high regard by all his colleagues and I think everyone agrees this is a very fitting way to remember him.”
Mr Tipping runs the Animal Welfare Lay Visitors Scheme which ensures canine experts make regular health checks on the condition and welfare of police dogs.
In December 2003, David Parfitt was convicted of PC Walker’s manslaughter and sentenced to 13 years in prison.
