Unveiling of the Police Dog Finn Memorial
Date: Sunday 27th July 2025
Time: 12:30pm – 2:00pm
Location: Layston Court Gardens, High Street, Buntingford, Hertfordshire
Dress code: Smart or Uniform
Parking: The nearest public car park to the event is Bowling Green Lane Car Park, 3 Bowling Green Ln, Buntingford SG9 9DF which will be first come, first serve. Please note that this is a pay and display car park.
Event Summary
In 2016, Police Dog Finn of Hertfordshire Constabulary was stabbed in the line of duty while protecting his handler from an armed suspect. At the time, the offender could only be charged with criminal damage, as there was no specific legislation in place to protect service animals.
Following the incident, Finn’s handler, PC Dave Wardell, launched a national campaign to secure greater legal protection for service animals – a campaign that became known as #FinnsLaw.
Finn’s story captured hearts around the world. After a three-year campaign – including a memorable appearance on Britain’s Got Talent – Finn’s Law received Royal Assent on 8th April 2019, granted by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. The law made it a specific offence to cause unnecessary suffering to a service animal, ensuring greater protection for those who serve.
Sadly, Police Dog Finn passed away on 27th July 2023, at the age of 14. He left behind a powerful legacy – one that ensures police dogs and their handlers across the United Kingdom can serve knowing they are protected by law. To honour Finn’s remarkable life and legacy, the Thin Blue Paw Foundation launched a public appeal to fund a permanent memorial in his name. Thanks to the incredible generosity of our supporters, over £50,000 was raised within just 48 hours.
We are proud to invite you to the unveiling of the Police Dog Finn Memorial, which will take place in Buntingford – the town where Finn lived and the county where he served with distinction.
Find out more about the event here: https://fb.me/e/3kfaGoN1J