Officers from Derbyshire Police experienced a moment of light-hearted surprise after a call-out for an allegedly abandoned dog turned out to be a case of mistaken identity involving a beloved children's toy.
The Mysterious 'Bully Dog' on Slack Hill
On Wednesday, 20th November 2024, police were alerted to multiple public reports concerning a small, bully-type dog that appeared to have been tied up and left at the top of Slack Hill along Chesterfield Road, near Matlock. The animal was said to have been stationed near the junction for the entire day, prompting concern from passersby.
Responding to the calls, officers arrived at the scene prepared to assist a vulnerable animal. However, they were met with an unexpected sight. The creature in question was not a living dog but a toy replica of Sven the reindeer from the immensely popular Disney animated film, Frozen.
A Humorous Social Media Revelation
The police force quickly saw the funny side of the mix-up and took to social media to share the tale with the local community. In a playful post on Facebook by the Matlock, Cromford, Wirksworth and Darley Dale Police SNT, they clarified the situation.
Their statement creatively announced that they had located one of Santa's reindeer resting after a test flight over the Dales area. The post elaborated that after giving the reindeer some stern words about being seen in the middle of November, the officers left him to continue his break.
Community Reaction to the Frozen Mix-Up
The amusing incident sparked a flurry of engagement and comments from local residents on social media. The community's response was a mix of humour and gentle critique.
One resident quipped about the fact that numerous people reported the toy but no one stopped for a closer look, while another suggested it would be lovely to leave Sven in place to catch snowflakes when it snowed. Several commenters joked about the need for eyewear appointments, referencing the high-street optician Specsavers.
Other locals confirmed they had also seen the toy, with one person noting they had to look twice before having a chuckle. A further comment expressed relief that the reindeer was later seen being reunited with its owner, hopefully avoiding a deernapping. The general consensus, as one person put it, was a gladness that people still have a sense of humour.
The event provided a brief, charming interlude for both the police and the Derbyshire community, demonstrating that not all call-outs are as they first appear.
