A POLICE dog and his handler have been given a top bravery award after tracking down and arresting a violent man.

Police dog Sparky and Sergeant Gareth Jackson were called into action on November 29 last year after reports of a burglary at a flat in Shanklin Road, Brighton.

The pair were first on the scene having been told the suspect could have a gun.

The man ignored Sgt Jackson's request for him to stay where he was, and instead jumped out of the window of a house.

Without any consideration for his personal safety, Sgt Jackson gave chase.

The man tried to run towards the busy Lewes Road and so Sparky set off.

He was cornered by Sparky between some parked cars and the police dog barked until Sgt Jackson tried to arrest him.

But the man fought back and tried to punch the officer and started kicking the dog.

He managed to run off again but Sparky gave chase and took him down by biting his leg.

The man kicked Sparky in the head, which prompted him to bite down harder.

Thankfully, Sparky was unharmed and Sgt Jackson was able to arrest him.

Sgt Jackson said: "The arrest of this offender would not have been possible without the actions of my police dog, and it demonstrates the real contribution that police dogs can make in apprehending criminals."

William Piper, 23, unemployed, of Wilmot Road, Shoreham, pleaded guilty to attempted robbery, possession of an offensive weapon (a knife), and possession of class A and B drugs at Lewes Crown Court on December 23.

He was sentenced to 30 months on January 29 this year.

Chief Superintendent Chris Moon said: "This was a very violent situation, exacerbated by the concern the suspect had a gun. Sgt Jackson acted selflessly and courageously with the knowledge that, if the man escaped, he could pose a significant danger to the public.

"His actions and those of Sparky, who was being kicked in the head at the time, should be commended. Thankfully they are both OK.”