British Transport Police

British Transport Police (BTP) is the world’s oldest specialist railway police force. Since the early 19th century, they have been at the forefront of global transport policing and played a vital role in a growing rail industry.

Their mission is to help get people home every day safe, secure and on time. They police the journeys of over 8 million people every day. In the last year alone, officers have dealt with more than 400 fatalities and made over 1,900 lifesaving interventions – in which a person is stopped from taking their own life - on the rail network.

BTP will be showcasing their range of specialist skills and giving you an insight into the unique world of railway policing.

Dog Display Team

Since their first deployment in February 2012, our armed officers have carried out thousands of station patrols. They help to deter, detect and disrupt a range of criminal activity, including terrorism, and their presence boosts security and enables us to respond quickly to incidents.

Our search dog section is the oldest of its kind in the country: our first four dogs - Airedale Terriers Jim, Vic, Mick and Ben - began patrolling Hull Docks in 1908! Since those first tentative paws on patrol more than 100 years ago, dogs have now become a common sight at British stations.

Whether ridding the streets of drugs or tackling terrorism by sniffing out explosives, their unique abilities have become increasingly valued in today’s climate and they provide a vital supporting role. As well as carrying out search duties, they can also track suspects from crime scenes, chase and detain offenders, and search for missing people.

Railway Dogs Benevolent Fund

The Railway Dogs Benevolent Fund is a charity in association with the British Transport Police that provides financial assistance and support to retired railway dogs and their handlers for veterinary bills, rehoming, and rehabilitation. It raises awareness of the important role these highly trained dogs play in the rail industry and ensures they have a comfortable retirement.

“All of the money we raise is used exclusively to look after the dogs who have given outstanding operational service, and we have been thrilled with the generous support we have received from the organisers, exhibitors and visitors to Rail Live."

- Adrian Hanstock, QPM, Chair of Trustees