AN ADORING fan of a German shepherd dog that saved the life of a policeman has delivered a work of art to its handler.

Judi Jones, a part-time artist, was inspired to recreate a photo from the Advertiser following the attack on PC Neil Sampson and his dog Anya.

She handed over the painting during a small ceremony at Gablecross police station.

PC Sampson, who was stabbed in the head last month after answering an emergency call in Liden, sent out a heartfelt thank you to Mrs Jones after receiving the painting of Anya, which he described as absolutely beautiful.

He said: "I am really thrilled, I didn't expect this beautiful painting. I was just doing my job and unfortunately for Anya and I, we were injured in the process.

"I knew the British public were great animal lovers but this is fantastic.

"For someone like Judi to feel so moved by this story is amazing.

"My wife and I already have a prime spot in the house for the painting, where everyone who walks in the front door will see it.

"We are planning to frame it immediately to protect the integrity of the painting.

"It is so lifelike to the point of being photographic in parts." PC Sampson's wife Mandy said: "The painting is so lovely. When Neil got word it had been created he was stunned and surprised, to say the least."

Mrs Jones, who used to have a German shepherd of her own named Bruno, says she spent three weeks finishing the painting, having worked on it for three hours a night.

She said: "When you hand a painting like this over to someone, having not even seen the dog, it is a scary feeling, but things went perfectly. I think they really liked it.

"I am extremely pleased with the painting and I am happy it looked so much like her. The best way to describe my emotions now is very proud.

"I know they are going to enjoy it for a very long time, and even after Anya is gone they will still have this.

"It is a lot more special than any photos too because of all the associations that go along with it. "

Among some of the other things Mr Sampson has received for Anya are hundreds of dog biscuits from around the country, dog chocolates, chew toys, and a number of get well cards.