Carlisle city centre was taken hostage by the emergency services as they held a special 999 day.

The free event was used to showcase just what the essential services do and how they work together.

Displays showing what the team are able to do wowed the crowds.

Officers dispatched the dogs to catch a robber while the crowds huddled round to catch a glimpse of the bandit being taken down.

Having fun at the exciting event was two-year-old Martha Quinlan, from Belah, who was with her mum Catherine.

She said: “We saw the day on Facebook and Martha loves the police. Every time there is a fire engine or a police car going past she get really excited.

“I think the set-up is great and I’m looking forward to next year.”

Martha said: “My favourite part is the dogs. I really like the firefighters and the police.”

Kirsty Davis, who is staying at Hethersgill with her family, had never been to an emergency service event before. She said: “I think it’s wonderful. I have my son with me who loves the police.”

Her son Charlie, seven, said: “I have been having a look at the police bikes. I like watching the police on TV, but this is very different.”

Superintendent Matt Kennerley said: “The showcase event was simply fantastic and it was a real privilege to be able to share what our officers and staff do to keep people safe.

“The demonstrations were really well-received and it was great to see so many people, of all ages, engage with us.

“It was really great to see such a positive atmosphere and the public getting involved – be that dressing up as a police officer, getting photos taken or learning potentially life-saving first aid skills.

“It was also pleasing to see the reaction on social media where we live-streamed some of the demonstrations so everyone could be part of it.”

The county’s crime commissioner Peter McCall added: “This has been a great opportunity for people to see firsthand the fantastic work the emergency services do every day in Cumbria.”