Dogs were given a free chip last week in Bushey as part of a campaign to use dog-walkers to help catch criminals in the area.

In total 37 dogs were chipped by Hertfordshire Constabulary at King George Recreation ground at the event aimed at getting residents to sign up to Dog Watch.

Watford Observer:

PCSO Esther Ainsley said: "Dog walker’s spend a lot of time out in their communities and would know if something suspicious or out of the ordinary was happening in their neighbourhood.  Dog walkers can not only help cut crime but can deter offenders."

Councillor Charles Goldstein, portfolio-holder for community safety, said: "Like all the best ideas, this is brilliant because it is so simple. 

"We hope the Dog Watch scheme will encourage people to feel involved in the welfare of their community, and help us make sure their area remains a safe, secure and happy place to live and work."