CRIMINALS are sure to think twice about tackling North Yorkshire Police's newest recruits, soon to be sniffing out law breakers on the streets.

German Shepherd dogs Rudi, Bruno, Blaze and Jess have successfully completed a 13-week course at the Dog Training Centre, at Solberge, near Northallerton, and are now licensed to go on patrol.

Sergeant David James, head of profession for the dog section, said: "Law-abiding members of the public are always pleased to see police dogs on patrol.

"The deployment of these dogs in North Yorkshire will have a significant impact for our priorities of reducing crime and providing public reassurance, which in turn will reduce the fear of crime."

Sixteen-month-old Rudi came to the force as an 11-week-old pup and has been assigned to PC Katy Cook.

Jess, who was donated to the force by a member of the public, is only 14 months old and will partner PC John Dent.

Blaze, who is 19 months old, will work with PC Vince Gillon, while four-year-old Bruno will team up with PC Helen Kay.

The officers are all members of the firearms support unit, which now encompasses the former dog section and operates county-wide.