POLICE in Cheshire want people to spend next year in the company of cute canine crimefighters.

The force's fundraising calendar showcases a constabulary dog each month and highlights the variety of work they do, from supporting armed operations, chasing after criminals to searching for missing persons.

All of the proceeds from the 2022 calendar will go towards Paws Off Duty - a police charity established in 2015 by PC Jackie Edwards from the Alliance Dog Section to assist with the daily costs of looking after the animals after they retire, including veterinary expenses.

Police dogs usually retire from active service between the ages of 8 and 10 and are re-homed by handlers or members of the public.

The costs can be hard to manage when rehoming an older dog (no matter how much we love them) so Paws Off Duty, a registered charity, help provide funding towards each retired police dogs needs and veterinary treatment.

Chief Insp. Simon Newell, Head of Alliance Policing for Cheshire and North Wales Police said: "The calendar is always hugely popular and is a great way of boosting our funds due to its popular demand.

"Our K9's dedicate their lives to looking after the public and it's only right that they have the best possible life after retirement."

When not striking attractive poses the 37 dogs of the Alliance Dog Section, help tracking offenders, search open areas and buildings, offer a less lethal tactical option to support firearms deployments as well as help with the search for missing persons.

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

The calendar, priced at £9.99, can be purchased at Farm and Pet Place stores and via their website https://www.farmandpetplace.co.uk/shop/products/pet/pet-gifts/gift-ideas/alliance-police-dog-calendar-donation.html