Stabbed policeman and dog return

Anya made a full recovery after being stabbed in the chest

A policeman and his dog who were both stabbed during an arrest in Swindon in Wiltshire are returning to work.

Pc Neil Sampson and his dog Anya were injured when they arrested a man armed with a knife in January 2008.

Pc Sampson had to have surgery on his head and face and his return to work was delayed due to his wounds becoming infected after the treatment.

Anya was stabbed in the chest but made a swift recovery. The pair return to full duties on 12 August.

At the time, acting Ch Supt Kevin Maidment said "The intervention of the dog played a vital part and helped bring to an end this horrific incident."

Essa Suleiman, 26, of Boundary Lane, Camberwell, London, pleaded guilty to charges of actual bodily harm and two counts of wounding with intent to do grievous bodily harm as well as admitting causing damage to property.

He is due to be sentenced on 1 August 2008.