North Yorkshire Police send some very special officers to assist with the Coronation

The Coronation of King Charles III saw a massive police operation take place with 29,000 officers deployed to the capital from across the country.
By Louise Perrin
Published 8th May 2023, 10:27 BST
Updated 8th May 2023, 10:35 BST
PC Gareth Gummerson and his canine colleague, PD IslaPC Gareth Gummerson and his canine colleague, PD Isla
PC Gareth Gummerson and his canine colleague, PD Isla

Some of those deployed had specialist capabilities such as firearms, marine support or search expertise and some were very special non-human workers, like North Yorkshire Police dog handler PC Gareth Gummerson and his canine colleague, PD Isla.

PC Gummerson said: “I joined North Yorkshire Police in March 2004 and became a dog handler 10 years ago.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“In my job as an officer in North Yorkshire I work with a general purpose dog, PD Milo and explosives search dog, PD Isla.

Most Popular
PC Gareth Gummerson and his canine colleagues, PD Milo and PD IslaPC Gareth Gummerson and his canine colleagues, PD Milo and PD Isla
PC Gareth Gummerson and his canine colleagues, PD Milo and PD Isla

“Police dogs are a specialist and important resource so we’re often deployed on mutual aid, where we work with colleagues from across the UK to help keep everyone safe at a variety of events and occasions.

“PD Isla and I travelled to London to be part of the policing operation for the King’s Coronation where we’re worked to ensure the safety of everyone attending the celebrations.

“Isla is an eight year old springer spaniel and is highly trained and skilled at her job, she’s never happier than when she’s working.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“We’ve been to many events together including the G7 in Cornwall, Cop26 in Glasgow, the UCI cycling championships, Armed Forces Day and on a number of deployments with the National Crime Agency.

A very patriotic look for PD IslaA very patriotic look for PD Isla
A very patriotic look for PD Isla

“London is certainly very different to North Yorkshire. There’s huge numbers of people around, large crowds and a lot of traffic but none of that phases Isla – she’s a true professional.

“Isla has been working hard searching a range of venues and locations but she’s also had plenty of downtime socialising with new canine friends.

"She’s definitely been enjoying staying in my hotel with me which is not a luxury she usually gets at home!

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“Not only did we have the opportunity to see behind the scenes but I loved working alongside colleagues from all over the UK and overseas.

"On this deployment I worked with colleagues from Northumbria Police, the Metropolitan Police, South Wales Police, Ministry of Defence and Devon and Cornwall Police.

“I was really proud to be part of this historic event and to play a role in keeping everyone safe so they could enjoy the celebrations and make the most of the occasion.”