A FORMER Redditch bobby, who is the chief constable of West Mercia Police, has rejected a retiring cop’s request for his police dog to finish its service at the same time, despite thousands signing a petition in his favour.

Sergeant David Evans and Ivy spent almost the last half-decade protecting the public and each other.

The chief constable's decision came after "heartbroken" Sgt Evans, from Market Drayton, was told by West Mercia Police that he must return Ivy when he hangs up his handcuffs, in April, following 34 years’ service.

A petition, which reached more than 35,000 signatures, was set up calling on West Mercia Police to withdraw its order that Malinois-German Shepherd cross Ivy be handed back to the force.

His daughter, Jennie said the family are utterly devastated and shocked by the decision and vowed to not give up their fight.

Chief Constable Anthony Bangham said: "We appreciate that all our handlers form close relationships with the dogs they work with and, understandably, many want to continue that relationship when they retire.

"Sometimes at the end of the dog's working life we are able to facilitate this but we always have to consider the needs of the dog and the force at the time and to meet our obligation to spend public funds wisely and ensure best value from all our resources.

"Although the dogs live with their handlers and have close relationships with them, they are not family pets. They belong to the force and are highly valued resources.

"PD Ivy is very young and has many years service ahead of her. She will therefore stay with the force and be re-handled with another officer.

"We understand that there has been a great deal of public interest in this case following the initial decision earlier this year.

"As a result I met with Sergeant Evans to discuss the matter and offered a number of options. Unfortunately these options have been rejected and so the original decision stands.

"I would like to thank Sergeant Evans for more than 34 years service across West Mercia Police and I wish him a long and happy retirement."

To view the petiton, click here.