Police dogs awarded canine 'George Cross' for July 7 heroism

Two Labradors called Vinnie and Billy and a spaniel called Jake received the honour, representing all 14 dogs who were called in to work in the immediate aftermath of the terror attacks.

The dogs showed off some tricks with their handlers before collecting their PDSA gold medals from the charity's patron Princess Alexandra at St James's Palace.

They worked for the British Transport Police, the City of London Police and the Metropolitan Police.

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Marilyn Rydstrom, director general of PDSA, said: "It is our honour to announce the award of the PDSA Gold Medal to these skilled and extraordinary dogs.

"Their presence proved invaluable on that fateful day and they continue to work with tireless courage on our behalf, detecting danger and protecting lives. We can all feel safer knowing these dogs and their handlers are on duty."

Fourteen dog teams were deployed to locate possible secondary terrorist devices at the four bomb attack sites in 2005.

The animals checked access was safe for emergency services, who were preparing to tend to those left trapped or injured.

Mrs Rydstrom added: "In the face of indescribable devastation and trauma, the dogs remained calm and steadfast. "Their gallantry helped save lives by ensuring medical assistance reached the casualties as quickly and as safely as possible."

Vinnie's handler, PC Dave Coleman paid tribute to his "brilliant" dog.

He said: "He was there about one hour after the explosion. We went to Russell Square, we were basically tasked to secure the rendezvous point outside the station and make it safe for emergency services to park vehicles.

"Then we searched along the platform and along the tunnels until we got to the attacked train. We searched the attacked train for explosive devices.

"Most of it was in pitch black darkness. It was a horrific sight, very horrific. It was a very sad day for everyone but the dogs were really brilliant.