A heroic police dog who was almost stabbed to death while saving his handler’s life left the judges in tears on Britain’s Got Talent tonight.
German shepherd Finn saved PC Dave Wardell’s life in October 2016 by leaping between him and a 16-year-old robber brandishing a knife - an act that saw the animal being stuck with the 12-inch blade, which narrowly missed his heart.
Seven-year-old Finn had to undergo four hours of emergency surgery following the attack in Hertfordshire, an incident which made headline news.
But on Saturday night ITV audiences saw the courageous canine fully restored to health and, along with owner Dave, the pair won over the BGT audience and judging panel with their mind reading act.
But it was an accompanying short video clip relaying Finn's near death experience and subsequent recovery which saw everyone get emotional, with even Simon Cowell struggling to keep it together.
"When I hear about animal cruelty, especially dogs, it upsets me.
"A dog will literally give up its life for you. Finn’s beautiful, I love him."
Dave and Finn, who retired from active duty in March 2017, were given 'yeses' by all four judges.
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Cowell also joined the duo on stage as part of the trick.
"There isn't a bigger stage than Britain’s Got Talent and dogs like Finn are out there day and night doing incredible work, " said Dave.
"So if I can tell his story and showcase service animals like him then I've already won."
In April, Finn's Law - new legislation giving greater legal protection to service dogs and horses - was passed by the House of Lords.
Other acts getting full marks from the BGT judges were nine-year-old dancer Ethan Higgins, from Dublin, rollerblading duo Rosie and Adam and singer Derek Sandy from the Isle of Wight.
