Celebrations are underway as a retired police dog that once patrolled the streets of Wiltshire has won the 'Kennel Club Hero Dog Award' at Crufts. 

Police Dog Stella was one of five finalists up for the special award at the world's biggest dog show over the weekend, and it was the hard-working Staffordshire Bull Terrier that walked away with the crown. 

After keeping Swindon safe with her owner PC Claire Todd, Stella moved to Gloucestershire Police before retiring after serving eight and a half years as a police drug, cash and firearms recovery dog. 

The award ceremony was held on Sunday night at Cruft's and when Stella's name was read out by presenter Kay Burley the cheeky dog refused to do a press interview and instead decided to claim the fluffy microphone cover as her own toy. 

A statement on Stella's social media made following the win said: "We are totally overwhelmed. What an incredible day we have had.

"All the finalists were worthy winners. Thank you so much for all voting for me, this award is for all Staffies loyal, loving, intelligent & cheeky (I couldn’t help it, in my defence it looked like a fluffy toy! Lol)."

Stella's old colleagues in the Swindon North East and Rural Community Policing Team had encouraged people to vote for her and shared the following reaction after news of her achievement broke. 

"She did it! Retired Police Dog Stella the Staffie won Cruft’s Hero Dog!

"We’re so proud of her, even if she tried to eat the fluffy cover on the TV microphone. Thanks to those who voted with us," a spokesperson said. 

Swindon Advertiser: Police Dog StellaPolice Dog Stella (Image: Wiltshire Police)

Despite her sad start to life as an RSPCA rescue dog, Stella overcame the odds in 2014 to become the first Staffordshire Bull Terrier Police Dog in the UK. 

In her working career, alongside her owner PC Claire Todd, Stella has found weapons and thousands of pounds worth of drugs and cash.

Outside of her vital work with the police bringing criminals to justice, she has also helped people overcome their fear of dogs during school and community talks.

Claire said: “I’m so very proud of Stella. She is an amazing ambassador for the breed, showing how loving, loyal and intelligent they are. She’s well and truly earnt her retirement.”