The award to our four-legged colleague, one of five canines receiving accolades from the Foundation, came just before he was due to retire from the Force after completing seven years of meritorious service.

Eight-year-old German Shepherd 'Harry' has helped the Force to successfully deal with more than one hundred cases during the past seven years.

His buddy and handler, Senior Police Constable Ip Kwok-wing, told OffBeat: "When he is off-duty Harry is a lovable, affectionate and playful 'little child' who likes nothing better than to play games with me. When he' s awake, Harry is like an over-energetic kid. He can' t sit still for a second and realy loves it when I throw a ball for him to chase and retrieve. Then, when at last he' s tired, he just loves lying on a sofa with his head resting on my thigh."

"In contrast", said Mr Ip, "when it comes to work, Harry turns into a tough, loyal and reliable partner. During our seven-year partnership, I have been constantly impressed by the high degree of devotion, bravery and intelligence he displayed. Once you order him on a mission, he will try his utmost to accomplish it, no matter how difficult the circumstances may be.

"A couple years ago, for example, I sent Harry after a man behaving suspiciously near Cheung Sha Wan Market. During the chase, he sustained serious injuries to his eyes, but he kept on chasing the man until he could see him no longer.

"After the incident, the veterinarian told me that there was only a fifty-fifty chance that Harry would see again. Fortunately, he made a full recovery and was soon back at work.

"Harry performed crowd management duties in an exemplary manner," said Mr Ip, "and he was extremely efficient at tracking down illegal immigrants."

Although Harry' s career as a Police canine has come' to an end, his 'lifelong' relationship with Mr Ip will not.

"I decided to adopt Harry because he has become an indispensable part of my life and I know I have become an indispensable part of his. Being separated would be unbearable for both of us.

"So, with the full support of my wife and mother, I determined to formalise his membership of the family. He will live with my mother in a newly renovated home where I shall be able to visit him often. I am so happy that I have the chance to give him a well-earned comfortable and relaxing environment in which to enjoy the rest of his life."

Police Dog Harry and his handler SPC Ip Kwok-wing