Officers' bravery is recognised

Anya was said to be making a good recovery from a stab wound.

Police bosses have praised the bravery of officers and a dog while detaining a knife-wielding suspect in Swindon.

Acting Ch Supt Kevin Maidment said the offender posed a significant risk and was apprehended thanks to the prompt and courageous actions of the officers.

"The intervention of the dog played a vital part and helped bring to an end this horrific incident," he said.

Pc Neil Sampson is recovering after surgery on wounds to his head and face suffered during Thursday's incident.

'Dog bite'

His dog Anya, which was stabbed in the chest, was monitored by a vet overnight and was said to be making a good recovery.

A second officer, who cannot be named for operational reasons, received less serious knife wounds and did not require hospital treatment.

A 26-year-old man, arrested on Thursday when officers responded to a 999 call remains in hospital recovering from dog bite injuries suffered while he was detained.

Police are not looking for anyone else in connection with the incident.

Det Sgt Nick Mawson, who is leading the investigation, urged witnesses to contact him.

"In particular, there were a number of young people in the area who were not involved but who may have filmed the incident or taken photographs.

"I would urge them to get in touch as they may have evidence which is extremely useful to this investigation."

The officers were responding to a 999 call reporting a serious assault at Briars Wood Court, in the Liden area of Swindon.