THE FIRST police dog on the scene of the Manchester Arena terror attack has been honoured for his bravery.

Police dog (PD) Mojo will receive the PDSA Order of Merit for his "devotion to duty" after he helped search the Arena for bombs just minutes after the concert attack on May 22 last year.

PDSA director of fundraising, Nigel Spencer, said: "Mojo’s actions on that fateful night enabled the emergency services to carry out their vital work, by helping to search and clear the area of potential secondary devices.

"Mojo worked tirelessly under conditions he’d never experienced before.

"For that devotion to duty and service to society, PDSA is honoured to recognise him.”

Handler, and now owner, PC Phil Healy said that Mojo appeared disturbed by the carnage inside the Arena, but still performed his duties like a professional.

PC Healy explained: “We were the first dog team on the scene and it was very chaotic. Mojo searched around the injured victims to make sure that the area was safe and clear of further explosives.

“Mojo was working well but he was somehow different. It was as though he didn’t want to be there, among the carnage that surrounded him.

"But despite this he worked on through the night."

Inspector Paul Miles from British Transport Police nominated Mojo for the award.

He said: “I am so proud to see Mojo recognised by PDSA in this way. He acted in the finest traditions of policing, under circumstances that you can never fully train for."

Mojo retired from police duties in August, but his service will always be remembered.

PC Healy added: “There is no doubt that what Mojo experienced that night had a lasting effect on him, as it has all of us.

"His receiving the PDSA Order of Merit is a fitting way to recognise his actions. I am extremely proud of him.”