A POLICE scheme where volunteers look after the welfare of animals in the force is to be split between two authorities.

Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire Police Authorities have implemented the collaboration of the two authorities’ Animal Welfare Lay Visiting schemes.

The decision was taken to combine both schemes following the already successful formation of a single Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire Dog Unit earlier this year.

Peter Conniff, chair of the Animal Welfare Lay Visiting Panel, said: ”Some of the original members from both authorities’ schemes have joined the new panel and we look forward to working together.

“I should stress that there is no suggestion that any police dog is not well cared for, and the Animal Welfare Lay Visiting Scheme provides independent and expert verification of this.

“We take a keen interest in the welfare of all those who work for both forces and the dogs are no exception.

“They are important members of the team.”

Animal Welfare Lay Visiting schemes were set up in Bedfordshire in 2003 and Hertfordshire in 2006 to enable accredited local volunteers to check on the welfare of animals used by the police and report any concerns.