Express & Star

Staffordshire Regimental mascot Watchman and handler praised in Parliament

The work of an 'iconic' military mascot and his handler have been praised in Parliament by an MP.

Published
Greg Hedges and Watchman V were thanked for their efforts by Amanda Milling MP

Amanda Milling, MP for Cannock Chase, has saluted the Staffordshire Regimental mascot in Parliament as his reign as Westminster Dog of the Year comes to an end.

It was the latest honour for Watchman V after picking up Ambassador of the Year at last year's Express & Star Great Big Thank You Awards.

Speaking in Parliament, Ms Milling highlighted the work undertaken by Sgt Watchman V and his handler, Greg Hedges, in promoting the Staffordshire Regimental family and wider armed forces causes across the county.

Watchman, a Staffordshire bull terrier, is a regular attendee at military parades, ceremonies and remembrance events with his handler giving up much of his free time to undertake the role.

This enables the canine mascot to also support a number of military causes including the Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal, RSPCA and many other local charities.

Ms Milling said: "I am a big fan of Watchman and I am always impressed by the work he and his handler do to support local regimental history and many local charities.

"This week saw a new Westminster Dog of the Year crowned. However Watchman was a real hit last year and holds a position steeped in history.

"We are so lucky to have such an iconic, hardworking and loved mascot as our symbol, and I wanted to share my admiration in Parliament on the anniversary of his achievement in the 2016 Westminster Dog of the Year competition."

Sgt Watchman V is mascot of the Staffordshire Regimental Association. He previously carried out the role for the Staffordshire Regiment before it was disbanded and merged with other regiments to form the Mercian Regiment in 2007.

He is the fifth mascot to bear the name Watchman and the latest in a line of mascots stretching back to 1882.

Sgt Watchman V's Westminster Dog of the Year title was this week taken on by Rocky, a chocolate labrador owned by Labour MP Tracy Brabin.