A police dog was seriously injured after being stabbed several times by a London teenager in the early hours of this morning.

Police dog Finn and his handler PC David Wardell attended the scene of an armed burglary in Stevenage around 1.15am.

Officers were initially called to reports of a gunman robbing a taxi driver.

After arriving at the location, a suspect was seen running from the scene so the dog and handler gave chase before being attacked by the suspect.

The spokesman added: “The dog suffered a wound to his head and chest is currently receiving emergency specialist treatment. The dog is in a serious but stable condition.”

PC Wardell received an injury to his hand and was taken to hospital for further treatment.

The spokesman added that Finn’s surgery appeared to have been successful and he was being closely monitored by staff.

The 16 year-old boy, from Lewisham was arrested on suspicion of GBH, conspiracy to rob, possession of a firearm and possession of a bladed article.

He is currently in custody.