Dorset's Chief Constable Wins Award

Dorset's Chief Constable has picked up a special award in recognition of his personal initiative to reduce bureaucracy in the force after being nominated by the local police Federation.

Mr Baker won the award for his 'Sorted' initiative that allows all Dorset Police staff to report issues and problems that are impeding their ability to do their job effectively and to suggest improvements directly to the chief constable's office so that he can make sure they get 'Sorted'.

The scheme is available on the Dorset Police internal web site (Intranet) and is used when a member of staff feels that they are not getting anywhere, or that a bureaucratic system is standing in the way of progress or new ideas.

The special award - made under the joint Police Federation and Home Office scheme aimed at reducing bureaucracy - was presented during the Federation's annual conference last month.

Speaking after the presentation, Mr Baker said: ‘This award was completely unexpected and of course I'm very pleased that the scheme has been recognised in this way by the Home Office and the Police Federation. I feel particularly privileged that the nomination for this award came from the Police Federation in Dorset.

‘There's no doubt that everyone in the Dorset Police is benefiting from the scheme and this can only then be beneficial to the public of Dorset and enable us to continue to make the county safer and feel safer,’ explained Mr Baker.

Clive Chamberlain, Chairman of Dorset Police Federation, who proposed Mr Baker for the award, said: ‘It's rewarding that the Home Office and the Police Federation have recognised the significance of Mr Baker's major innovation.

‘This initiative could be rolled out across the country, and not just in the Police service, I'm sure there are leaders in industry who could also make use of the benefits to their staff and their organisations.’

Lancashire Team Wins Top Award

Lancashire Constabulary's Occupational Health, Safety and Welfare Team has scooped a top award for reducing sickness in the force by nearly a fifth.

The team won the Improving Working Lives award for putting people first at the national Public Servants of the Year Awards 2006 in London.

They beat off competition from two other finalists - Stevenson College Voice Care Team from Edinburgh, and the HR team of Causeway Health and Social Services Trust in County Antrim.

The Occupational Health, Safety and Welfare Team won the award for encouraging officers in the Lancashire Constabulary back to frontline duties after sick leave.

The constabulary had high levels of sickness absence among its officers which was straining budgets. To combat the problem the team created a healthy police service plan which focused on attendance and health and safety issues.

Funding from the Home Office enabled the team to set-up a health screening programme for 'fast track' medical intervention and physiotherapy.

By September last year, sickness rates were down by 17% from 2004, putting 25 more officers on the streets each day. Sickness rates for police staff fell by 20% over the same period; and long-term sickness cases more than halved.

The constabulary has now linked up with the Health and Safety Executive to spread its expertise in police health to other services in the UK.

Ashley Judd, team manager, said: ‘Winning this award is a privilege and an achievement the team is very proud of. The programme has had such a positive impact on the police officers, our police force and the community as a whole. The team look forward to witnessing the continued success of the programme and its implementation in other services in the future.’

Liverpool Constables Commended

Two constables whose quick-thinking actions helped to prevent an armed robbery in Liverpool have been commended by their Chief Constable, Bernard Hogan-Howe.

PC's Mike O'Hara, 38, and Daniel Jones, 27, were on patrol in plain clothes on Edge Lane when they noticed a man acting suspiciously and then pull his hood up over his head before going into a nearby bookmakers.

The officers ran to the door of the bookmakers, where they saw the offender turn and head for the exit. They also noticed he was carrying a firearm. The officers then charged at the offender, disarming him of what turned out to be a loaded handgun. Nobody was injured during the incident but a member of staff was left very shaken.

As a result, Martin James McMurrie, aged 18 years from Alvanley Road in West Derby was charged and pleaded guilty to attempted robbery, possession of a prohibited weapon and driving while disqualified. He was sentenced to six years for attempted robbery and five years for possession of a prohibited weapon, to run concurrently.

Constable Daniel Jones said: ‘My actions on that day were instinctive. Although I was nervous about what we'd come up against, my main concern was protecting the people in the bookmakers and arresting the man who was responsible for this terrible act. I'm very proud to have received this commendation but, that aside, if I was confronted with the same situation tomorrow, I would do the same thing.’

Constable Mike O'Hara said: ‘Looking back it was a very nerve-wrecking experience. We didn't think twice and our main concern was arresting the man. We were perhaps very lucky we weren't injured.’

Chief Constable Bernard Hogan-Howe said: ‘I am very proud of these two officers. This is a clear example of the type of situations our officers must deal with and they have shown an incredible amount of courage. Many would consider their actions to be part of an officers everyday work. But their quick-thinking and selfless behaviour has helped to make the streets of Merseyside a safer place. Well done Mike and Daniel!’

The officers were also commended by the judge.

Cambridgeshire Officers and Staff Praised

Cambridgeshire officers and staff have been formally praised for their outstanding achievements in policing at a ceremony held on Wednesday, May 24th.

The Divisional Commander's Commendations saw 24 police officers, special constables and police staff from Central Division presented with certificates for exceptional hard work, commitment and actions above and beyond the call of duty.

Central Divisional Commander Chief Superintendent David Hankins, who presented the awards, said: ‘This ceremony is a way of saying thank you and well done to staff who have shown a dedication to helping people and catching criminals in particularly challenging circumstances.

‘I am proud to have presented these commendations and pleased that those involved are getting the recognition they deserve.’ Details of the commendations and the officers that are receiving them are as follows:

Insp Vic Galpin, for his consistent high level of professionalism, personal commitment, energy and drive in working with the gypsy and traveller communities.

Special Constables Rosie Hearnshaw, Darren Watson, Katie Russell (and two others who do not wish to be named), for their performance, professionalism and teamwork in dealing with a violent robbery in Huntingdon.

PC Stu Wright, for his performance and professionalism in caring for a woman and her critically ill three-year-old son.

Supt Nigel Trippett, Det Insp John Betts, Sgt Sean Spencer, Det Con Trevor Igoe, Det Con Nigel Sutton, PC Mark Vincent (Lincolnshire Police) and Det Con Paul Wallis, for their performance, motivation, professionalism, and team work in successfully solving a linked series of commercial burglaries.

PC Gary Blane for his efforts in dealing with a man who had attempted to take his own life.

Special Constable (Section Officer) James Chamberlain for his efforts in dealing with a man who was threatening to take his own life.

PC Mark Barry, PC Mark Mossop, PC Louisa Collett and PC Jayne Maggs, for the professional way they dealt with a man who had attempted to take his own life.

Insp Angus McNeill for his efforts in supporting an officer through a serious illness and subsequent recovery.

Sgt Mark Williams (and two other officers who do not wish to be named) for his quick thinking in dealing with an aggressive man who had climbed onto the roof of a building. The officers managed to bring a dangerous, potentially life threatening situation to a speedy and safe conclusion.

Northampton Man Awarded Silver Medal for Bravery

A Northampton man has been awarded a silver medal for bravery at a prestigious police awards ceremony.

Ted Haddon was presented with this honour at this week's Provincial Police Awards ceremony, which formed part of the ACPO summer conference in London.

Mr Haddon was nominated for an award by Northamptonshire Police after receiving a Certificate of Appreciation at the Force's awards ceremony in June last year.

It followed an incident in November 2003 when police officers were called to reports of a shooting in Watkin Terrace, Northampton, and of a man still being in the street with a firearm.

Police officers at the scene, together with a member of the public, rendered first aid to a seriously injured man. At the same time the man with the firearm remained in the street behaving in an extremely threatening manner.

Mr Haddon, a neighbour of the man in the street with the firearm, was also on the scene and managed to calm his neighbour down and get the firearm from him.

He then held the firearm high above his head and walked down the road towards the police officers, clearly signalling that the firearm presented no threat now that it was in his hands.

Mr Haddon's actions helped defuse what was a life-threatening situation and prevented any further injuries or threat to police officers and others present.

Ged Wins National Police Dog Trials

Merseyside police dog 'Ged' has won the National Police Dog Trials, the first time in the competition's 46 year history that a Merseyside dog has taken the top prize.

Twenty seven teams from across the UK took part in the competition after qualifying from a series of regional trials.

Ged's Dog Handler, Stephen Laughton, said of the victory:
‘I am extremely proud to win this event on behalf of Merseyside Police, particularly as it is the first time Merseyside Police has won this award.

‘It has tested and successfully demonstrated the consistently excellent standards we have achieved and I am delighted we have retained the three category trophies we won last year.

‘This achievement would not have been possible without the expertise and generosity of my colleagues Constable Chris Roberts and Nigel Wood who played key roles in our preparation for the competition and I would very much like to take this opportunity to thank them.'

The dogs were expected to demonstrate a range of skills, designed to test them to the highest standard expected from an active and operational police dog.

These include:
1 Tracking - A half mile track, two hours old in open country
2 Obedience - To show the extent of control by the handler, whilst the dog is at heel and or surmounting obstacles
3 Agility - testing the agility of the dog to undertake policing operations
4 Searching - In a small area for four articles. Quartering an area or building for two hidden persons
5 Detaining Skills - Chasing and detention of an escaping suspect, By engaging when suspect refuses to stop; Without engagement when the suspect stands still; Tested for courage in face of gunfire or stick; Stopping the dog at a distance

Hertfordshire Officers Commended for Help after 7/7 Bombings

Hertfordshire officers and staff have been commended by the Metropolitan Police service for their help in dealing with the aftermath of the London bombings.

Eleven police officers and eight scenes of crime officers were presented with their commendations last week at the Peel Centre in London by Metropolitan Police Commissioner Sir Ian Blair.

All officers and staff helped with body recovery and mortuary duties following the bomb blasts on July 7th.

Chief Constable Frank Whiteley, said: ‘These commendations are a reflection of the professionalism, dedication and hard work of our officers and staff. Dealing with the aftermath of a terrorist attack is a harrowing task.

‘Those involved were working in horrific conditions but managed to retain their professionalism throughout. They are a credit to Hertfordshire Constabulary and it is only right that they should be commended for their efforts.’

The officers commended are:
Inspector Michael Ling
Inspector Judith Spencer
PS Colin Mann (Stevenage)
PC Richard Austin
PC Kim Halifax (Headquarters)
PC Paul Scott (Hertford)
PC Paul Beecher (St Alban's)
PC Phil Snook (St Alban's)
PC Tim Walker (Cheshunt)
PC Steve Tinsley (Watford)
PC Jos Bartlett (St Albans)

Scenes of Crime Officers (SOCOs)
Dave Tyrell
Alan Dobson (Eastern Area)
Ian Mc Intyre (Eastern Area)
John Hall (Western Area)
Jo Mason (Hoddesdon)
Mark Watson (Watford)
Jeff Ellis (Western Area)
Julie Fenton (Letchworth)

Inspector Judith Spencer, who helped to co-ordinate the project, named Operation Theseus, who was also commended, said: ‘Operation Theseus involved a number of officers and staff from Hertfordshire Constabulary. We were proud to play a small part with assisting the Met deal with the aftermath of the terrorist attacks on July 7th last year. The ceremony was a truly momentous occasion with 111 recipients receiving the awards from Sir Iain Blair.’

Davina Logan Receives Queen's Police Medal

Northamptonshire's Deputy Chief Constable has attended a ceremony at Buckingham Palace to receive the Queen's Police Medal.

Davina Logan's award was included in the New Year's Honours in recognition of distinguished service to policing.

Mrs Logan has been an officer for 29 years, and joined the Northamptonshire force in November 2004, where she has responsibility for performance improvement in the force. She previously served in the Metropolitan Police, Thames Valley and Leicestershire where she was Assistant Chief Constable.

Mrs Logan is a member of the Association of Chief Police Officers' Race and Diversity Business Area; she is ACPO liaison with the Police Diversity Trainers' network, ACPO lead on Age Discrimination, and a member of the National Intelligence Model Working Group.

She said; ‘When I started my career in the police, I never envisaged being honoured with such an award. I am very proud to receive it, and I am looking forward to the ceremony at Buckingham Palace.’

PC Craig Matthews Gets Award

PC Craig Matthews has been awarded a policing excellence accreditation at a recent ceremony.

The accolade, part of the APEX (Achieving Policing Excellence) scheme, recognises a high level of practical and operational skill carried out above and beyond the normal call of duty.

The 40 year-old officer's high performance was recognised when he was presented with his award by Chief Constable of Surrey Police Bob Quick.

Craig is a well known face in the community, working currently as the Woking Borough Youth Affairs Officer, a role which has seen him regularly visiting schools and youth groups since he began in September last year. Before this he was the Neighbourhood Support Officer for Knaphill, Brookwood and St. John's, a position in which his achievements were recognised by a Divisional Commendation. He has been a Training Liaison Officer and was responsible for the training of probationers.

In all of his roles Craig has demonstrated outstanding work and commitment to the police service. He is held in high esteem by his colleagues and supervisors alike. He is totally committed to Surrey Police and continually displays his dedication and loyalty whilst retaining the enthusiasm that he had when he first joined in October 1989.

Essex Officers Receive Commendations

Essex officers from across the county will be presented with Chief Constable's commendations at a ceremony at Police Headquarters at 10.00am on Friday May 19th.

Sgt Matthew Scrivener (Tendring) will be presented with a commendation for his team work in January 2005. Along with other colleagues Sgt Scrivener attended an address in Clacton where a man required mouth to mouth resuscitation. Despite his best efforts to revive him in squalid conditions the man later died. A suspect was arrested at the scene and in August 2005 was found guilty of murder and robbery and was sentenced to life imprisonment.

DC Paul Chambers (Headquarters) is to be commended for his professionalism and attention to detail in the identification of a man responsible for rape and creation of indecent photographs of a ten year old girl. As a result of his knowledge and expertise he was able to locate images on a computer of a girl who had been sexually abused. The young girl was later traced and confirmed that she had been raped. The man was later sentenced at Basildon Crown Court in April 2005 and received 13 years imprisonment.

Mr Dominic Bergonzi, from Epping, is to be commended for his public spirited action whilst intervening during a serious assault. A man had been stabbed by another man and without any thought for his own safety he followed the assailant. Mr Begonzi followed the man for over a mile despite him still being armed with a knife. After reaching a housing estate he unfortunately lost him.
The man was eventually traced and convicted of GBH at Chelmsford Crown Court where he received a five year sentence.

Northumbria Police Officers Receive Chief Constable's Commendations

Two Northumbria Police officers who arrested a man wielding a samurai sword have had their actions recognised by Chief Constable Mike Craik.

PCs Lee Bradford, and Steven Winward were first to arrive at a large-scale disturbance in Sunderland, in May last year.

They found a large group of people, some covered in blood, fighting in the street, and a man emerged from the crowd brandishing a large samurai sword. He was shirtless, covered in blood and clearly drunk, lashing out indiscriminately at people stood nearby. He then walked towards an elderly woman and struck her across the shoulder with the sword.

PC Winward approached the man and told him to drop the sword, but he refused.

Both officers then placed themselves between the swordsman and the crowd to reduce further injury to members of the public.

PC Winward kept talking to the man but as he would not put his weapon down the officers were forced to use CS spray, which gave them the opportunity to disarm and safely arrest him.

In total five people were hurt during this incident, including a woman who had part of her finger bitten off. The man subsequently received a two year detention order.

The officers received Chief Constable's Commendations for their actions.
The awards were among a number of presentations by the Chief Constable at a ceremony at the Assembly Rooms, Newcastle, last week.

Other awards presented include:

The High Sheriff of Northumberland's Cup went to PC Wendy Amess, for her outstanding work in the East Gateshead and Felling Community Policing Team.

PC Amess made 98 arrests between February 2005 and March 2006 and issued large numbers of summons and fixed penalty notices to tackle problem offenders.

These arrests include chasing a motorist who abandoned the vehicle she was pursuing, catching him and restraining him in a hostile public bar. He was subsequently charged with offences relating to class A drugs and driving offences.

In a similar incident she ran after another driver who had left his vehicle and arrested him despite the fact that he was struggling. He was found to have committed a series of house burglaries and was under the influence of drugs.

PC Amess works to engage with her local community and was invited to her local comprehensive school as a guest to the school's citizenship award. She played a prominent role in policing the Felling Community Festival last summer.

The High Sheriff of Tyne and Wear's Cup was presented to DC Antony Hill, of the Vehicle Crime Unit in Gateshead Area Command.

DC Hill has been nominated for the cup for his good work in detecting and preventing crime and helping the community over the last year, having notched up a personal detection rate of over 98 per cent for his finalised investigations.

Five men he arrested for offences have resulted in 119 crimes being detected.

He was one of the first officers on the scene when he came across a stolen car which had been involved in a serious collision and which had been used in handbag snatches in Gateshead and Washington.

DC Hill co-ordinated a five month long investigation into these crimes, including spending three days single-handedly checking the contents of a car park ticket machine to identify the necessary ticket for forensic examination.
Both offenders subsequently pleaded guilty and were sentenced to six and half years each.

Also during the evening, a total of 16 officers were also presented with long service and good conduct awards and six members of police staff received long service awards.

Warwickshire Awards

Police officers, police staff and members of the public have been commended at an awards ceremony at Warwickshire Police headquarters.

Chief Constable John Burbeck presented the awards last Friday with the assistance of the Lord Lieutenant of Warwickshire Martin Dunne.

Long service and good conduct medals were presented to the following serving police officers: PC Martin Hobson, Sgt Shaun Albrighton, Ch Insp Michael Wylde, A/Insp Susan Froggatt, PC Jack Parker, DC Karl Collicott, Ch Insp Timothy Bailey, A/Supt Diane Vicary, PC Christopher Sorrell, Ch Insp Christopher Lewis, DI Howard Ormsby, DC Peter Harwood, PC Neil Chorley, DS Catherine Tomkinson, Sgt Anthony Lampard, ACC Andrew Parker, DS Andrew Carpenter, Insp Peter Wright, PC Michael Bennett, Insp Leslie Twynholm, PC Christopher Smith, PC John Harris, Det Ch Supt Stephen Burrows, temporary DS Michael Hand, Ch Insp Peter Brown, DC Martin Robinson, Sgt Christopher Ross, Insp Richard Woodcock, A/ACC Nick Croft and PC Sally Rolfe.

Members of the special constabulary receiving long service medals: Special Constable David Turner, Section Officer Steven Jackman, Special Constable Jim Bryan, Special Constable Ivan Smart and Section Officer Ben Agar.

Members of the Special Constabulary receiving first and second bars to their long service medals: Special Constable Janet Goggins and Special Constable Wayne Pithie.

Chief Constable's Commendations were presented to:
Peter Guillaume, who set up Warwickshire's Business Crime programme; PC Shane Bird for his quick thinking and bravery when he disarmed a man and rescued a child following an incident of manslaughter in Rugby; DC Ian Woodward, for his work in the force technical support unit; Mr Derek Ridgway, DC Steve Cox, DC Lorraine Hartshorn, Ms Kate Orridge and Ms Debbie Robbins for their work in the Public Protection Unit which monitors and registers all sex offenders within Warwickshire; PC Jon Ashby, PC Martha Medley, PC Craig Marshall and PC Stuart Barnes whose bravery and swift actions saved the lives of a mother and baby during an incident in Torres Close, Warwick; Sgt David Gardner, PC Joanne Edgar and PC Ravinder Gill who overpowered and arrested a violent offender during an incident in Nuneaton during which Sgt Gardner was stabbed in the arm; PC Natasha Richards, PC Ian Payne, PC Tony Brown and PC Karl Roberts who prevented a suicide in Nuneaton; Mr John Hall who detained a jewellery thief in an incident in Leamington; Mr Paul Verden, who saved the life of a young boy in Nuneaton and Mr Neal Maplecroft who intervened in a robbery in Rugby.

Warwickshire Neighbourhood Watch Awards 2005, sponsored by ADT Security Systems and presented by general manager Glyn Le Broqu:

Street or Area Scheme award: Coton Neighbourhood Watch Association; runner up, Wood End Neighbourhood Watch Scheme.

Individual award: Fiona Cosworth, of Fir Tree Grove Neighbourhood Watch; runner up, Stephen Smith, North Warwickshire Neighbourhood Watch Association.

Neighbourhood Watch Partnership Award: Esther Kinch of North Warwickshire Neighbourhood Watch Association.

Neighbourhood Watch Award for Young People: Stuart Tranter of Nuneaton and Bedworth Neighbourhood Watch Association.

Neighbourhood Watch Lifetime Achiever's Award: Ron Potter of North Warwickshire Neighbourhood Watch Association; runner up, Don Samways, who set up a scheme in Whitnash.

Overall Neighbourhood Watch Winner: Ron Potter.

John Rennie Citizen Focus Award: Mr Sasha Taylor, eCommunications officer, for his work in communicating the force message to the public.

Sanction Detection Awards: Ch Insp Christine Wadsworth (Inspiring Success), DS Liam Barry (Team Award - Working Together) and DS Cawail Wong (Breaking New Ground) who is also the overall winner.

Police Dog Action of the Year 2004L PC David Hilton and Police Dog Clyde.

Police Dog Action of the Year 2005: PC Andrew Crouch and Police Dog Zimba.

Probationer of the Year: PC Elliot Butler.

Bembridge Airport Staff Win Award

Britten-Norman has announced that Bembridge Airport staff, Darren Steed and Damon Corr, were jointly presented with the 2005 IFTC Low category Aerodrome Supervisor Award.

This represents Excellence on the Aerodrome Supervisor's course, which is taken as part of the CAA Category 2 Fire Safety legislation. The qualification supports a greater understanding of the command and control of aircraft in emergencies and accidents, tactics and techniques for dealing with aircraft incidents and practical competence.

Darren Steed, the Airport Manager said ‘Both myself and Damon are thrilled to receive this award. This qualification is one part of a constantly improving Airport safety service at Bembridge. The highly trained staff coupled with continued investment in equipment including off-road rapid intervention vehicles, support a safety record of which we are rightly proud.’

The award has come at a great time for an increasingly busy Bembridge; the Airport has seen a 25% boost on GA movements in 2005. With the refurbished Aero Club facilities and busy events calendar, including the greatly anticipated Schneider Trophy in September, this is sure to be an exciting year at Bembridge and for Britten-Norman.

Darren and Damon attended a recent award ceremony at the International Fire training centre at Teeside airport on the 14th April.

Norfolk Commendations for Bravery

Eighteen Norfolk police officers and a police dog have received Chief Constable Commendations for their bravery.

The officers protected Portuguese football supporters when the Thetford pub they were in came under attack after England lost to Portugal in the European Football Championships in 2004.

Despite physical and verbal abuse, the officers remained in position to ensure the safety of the occupants of the pub.

A major investigation was launched which led to 16 people being charged with the offence of violent disorder. 6 other people were charged with Section 4 and 5 public order and criminal damage offences.

Carole Howlett, Chief Constable of Norfolk Constabulary, said: 'Despite immense pressure, physical and verbal abuse and personal danger the officers remained in their positions and undoubtedly prevented serious injury to members of the public. These awards clearly demonstrate the bravery of our police officers who sometimes have to take extraordinary actions in their everyday role. The bravery and professionalism are in the true tradition of the police service.'

The 18 officers awarded with Chief Constable Commendations were:

Inspector 4122 Mike Brown
Sgt 3349 Mark Parkinson
T/Sgt 1248 Darren Brooks
Sgt 729 Stephen Burke
PC 1360 Martin Fallon
PC 1486 Gary Hodges
PC 9138 Leah Norton
PC 650 Zita Nunn
PC 435 Jason Selvarajah
PC 1440 Kim Selvarajah
PC 826 Simon Jones
PC 1405 Brian Moss
PC 1337 Chris Archer
PC 1099 Dave Thomas
SC 7993 Steve Spidy
DC 376 Stephen Matthews
DC 552 Jason Davis
PC 853 John Harwood and Police Dog Zak

Thames Valley Long Service Awards

Thames Valley officers and police staff have had their hard work and dedication recognised at the annual Long Service and Good Conduct Awards ceremony.

This month 23 people from a wide range of departments were awarded the medal for serving 22 years with Thames Valley Police, at a ceremony at Drayton Golf Club.

Among those honoured was Inspector Terry Hinchly (pictured with Chief Constable Sara Thornton), Sector Inspector for Wantage and Faringdon.

Terry joined in 1983 as a patrol officer at Witney, where he lives with his wife Tish and children Jennifer and Graham, before becoming a firearms officer a few years later. In this role he carried out many duties at the home of the then Northern Ireland Secretary, Douglas Hurd, including going to investigate a suspicious noise with his firearm drawn, to discover it was the neighbour's donkey!

After a spell as acting sergeant at Faringdon, Terry was promoted to sergeant and served at Abingdon, Oxford and Cowley. He received a commendation from the Chief Constable in 1992 for the professional way he dealt with an incident involving a man armed with a knife and crowbar.

Terry was promoted to his current role two years ago and on receiving his award said: 'I am proud that my time with Thames Valley has been recognised, my time here has been challenging and rewarding.

Also recognised in the ceremony were the following officers and staff:
PC Paul Allen, Patrol Officer, Witney
D/Sgt Antonino Brancato, Seconded out of Force
PC Paul Buckingham, Protection Group, Royal Lodge
PC Stephen Cox, Neighbourhood Co-ordinator, Carterton
Mrs Marian Gardner, Criminal Justice Unit, Aylesbury
Sgt Danny Hargreaves, Prisoner Intervention Unit, Newbury
Insp Robert Jarrett, Sector Inspector, Wolverton
DC Grahame Jones, Priority Crime Team, Bracknell
DI John Kemsley, Major Crime, Aylesbury
PC Nigel Luker, Control Room, Abingdon
Mrs Margaret Nicholls, Personnel, Milton Keynes
Sgt Colin Pike, Neighbourhood Policing, Ascot
Mrs Linda Richards, Police Authority, HQ
C/Insp Andrew Standen, Shift Inspector, Milton Keynes
DC Roy Thornton, Burglary Team, Oxford
PC Simon Towers, Area Beat Office, Chipping Norton
PC Julian Weal, Casualty Reduction, Chieveley

A number of officers are not listed at their request.

Cheshire Special Commended

Catching criminals and saving lives is all in a day's work for Cheshire Special, Chris Cowen.

Chris has only been a Special for 15 months yet he's already clocked up a Chief Superintendents' Commendation and a Force Extra Mile Award - an award given to police staff at the request of their work colleagues in recognition of their willingness to go that extra mile day in, day out.

Dad-of-two Chris said: ‘My only regret is that I didn't join as a Special sooner. I joined because instead of sitting in the pub at the weekend complaining about the country's problems, I wanted to make a difference, albeit a small one, to peoples' quality of life.’

And Chris is certainly doing just that. He made a massive difference to the life of one family when their six-year-old went missing.

‘Returning the child to her family unharmed is probably my most memorable experience as a Special so far,’ he said.

Chris works around 13 hours a week, many of which are spent working alongside Community Action Team officers tackling issues such as alcohol-related anti-social behaviour, underage drinking, youth nuisance problems and illegal use of motorbikes.

Sgt James Rowe, of the Northwich CAT, said: ‘The Specials make an invaluable contribution to policing in Northwich. They play a major role in all our operations and are helping us deliver results in all areas of crime.’

Police Community Support Officers are another reassuring presence at work on the streets of Cheshire and it was Chris' partnership work with Hartford PCSO Karen Nixon which earned them both a Superintendents' Commendation.

The awards came after the colleagues used their extensive local knowledge and excellent contacts in the community to identify two burglary suspects. The information the duo passed to detectives about the suspects and the car they were using enabled them to immediately arrest the offenders and seize their vehicle. A search was carried out and property from both burglaries was recovered. The courts are now dealing with the suspects.

Officers and Police Staff Honoured in Gloucestershire

Officers and police staff who saved the life of a pilot who crashlanded in freezing weather have been honoured in Gloucestershire Constabulary's 30th Awards for Excellence.

The ceremony was held in the new police HQ building at Waterwells, Quedgeley and was hosted by Chief Constable Dr Timothy Brain.

Cheryl Johnson who took the initial call from the injured pilot and Ruth Wills who directed patrols to the crash site received Chief Constable's Commendations.

Constables Stephen Smith who carried the pilot across farmland to safety and Billy Jenkins and Matthew Reen who helped with the search received Chief Constable's Commendations at the level highly commended.

Dr Brain said: ‘We rightly expect our officers and staff to perform at their best in their day to day work, but there are occasions when people go above and beyond the course of their normal duties.’

‘On those occasions it is only right that they receive extra reward and recognition. That is why we are proud to hold our Awards for Excellence and honour those individuals publicly for their endeavours. I thank each and every one of them for their efforts.’

Other recipients included Inspector Stephen Norris and Constable Lenny Mansell who received Chief Constable's Commendations for effectively dealing with a man who brandished a knife at them on November 24th 2005.

Constables Sarah Ward, Sarah Sceats, Neil Jackson and Andrew Robertson all received Commendations for their work in trying to save the life of an elderly man who collapsed and stopped breathing in Winchcombe on November 28th 2005.

Detective Sergeant Russell Williams received a Commendation for work that resulted in former teacher Simon Pinnington being sentenced to three years imprisonment for sex offences in November 2005.

Constables Trish McCavera and Jason Norman St George received Commendations for their efforts in trying to save the life of a 14 year-old girl who collapsed at a pub in Lydney on January 24th.

DC Claire McGuire received a Commendation and DC Rachael Spriggs and Detective Inspector Bob Vestey received Chief Constable's Certificates of Merit for their investigation into a series of serious sexual abuse on five members of the same family over a period of thirty years.

The offender appeared at Gloucester Crown Court in September 2004 where he was convicted of 14 specimen counts of indecent assault, rape and unlawful sexual intercourse. He was sentenced to a total of 14 years imprisonment.

Former Detective Chief Inspector Tony Davis was Commended for his part in the investigation into the deaths of a woman and her son at their address in Cheltenham in October 2004.

PC Duncan Sleeman and PC Alexandria Butler were Commended for their efforts in trying to save the life of a motorcyclist who was involved in a road collision in December 2005.

DS Alistair Armstrong and DC John Wood received Commendations for their successful investigation into a vicious assault on a man at Barrow Wake, Birdlip on January 14th 2005.

Valerie Smith, Helen Whitman, David Smith and Louisa Cronshaw were awarded Certificate's of Merit for their work during the G8 summit.

As logistics officers their work involved the creation of a substantial police force, consisting in total of 7,100 police officers, the mobilisation of this force and its accommodation in various locations throughout Scotland.

Detective Inspector Simon Atkinson, DS Steve Wood, DCs Dean Morse and Kenneth Bolan, Constables Ian Seeley and Paul Thomas received Chief Constable's Certificates of Merit for their work in the Priority Policing Team in Gloucester.

There are many examples of where DI Atkinson and his team have performed extremely effectively, but the following is particularly worthy of note. On February 7th 2006 two separate series of robberies occurred in Gloucester. Within two days DI Atkinson and his team had arrested 7 individuals and one, the main offender, was remanded in custody. This was achieved utilising the CCTV system, a positive arrest strategy and skilful custody and interview techniques. During that week alone the robbery team arrested and processed 10 offenders for robbery.

Sergeant Karen Ellis received a Certificate of Merit for her work in setting up the Professional Development Unit for the Cotswold and Stroud Division.

Constable Harry Cook was awarded a Chief Constable's Certificate of Merit for developing and running a training programme for Control Room Supervisors on the work of the dog section.

Detective Inspector Steve Porter received a Chief Constable's Commendation, and Rose Lewis and Constable Christa Morris received Quality of Service awards, for their work with the South West Forces Casualty Bureau.

Police Community Support Officer Emily Harper received the same award for her good work in Hucclecote INA.

Mrs Linda Jones received a Quality of Service Award for her support of the Force Financial Investigators.

Mr Roger Samples received a Quality of Service Award for his work in supporting the Contact Centre in eliminating problems with the force's e-crime forms.

Detective Sergeant Craig Guthrie received a Quality of Service Award for his exceptional work on the Constabulary's Economic Crime Unit.

Jo Wasley and Jo Bailey each received a Quality of Service Award for their work on the Constabulary's Diversity Training Need Analysis.

Detective Sergeant Mark Cheminais, Detective Constable Jason Hatcher and Miss Linda Raymer received Quality of Service Awards for their work with Her Majesty's Surveillance Inspector

Sergeant Jason Keates, Constables Paul Roberts, Roy Jones, Adam Large and John Testar, PCSOs Stacey Lee and Mohammed Ginwalla received the national Crime Reduction Award from the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister for their pioneering work in Barton Street, which has resulted in significant reductions in crime locally.

Lancashire’s Western Division Wins Award

Lancashire Constabulary's Western Division has won an award for setting up a new initiative for victims of homophobic crime.

Western Division won the Most Inclusive Award at the CSV Make a Difference Day 2005 for working to breakdown barriers between the police and the lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans-gender (LGBT) community.

For CSV Make a Difference Day 2005 Lancashire Police launched a homophobic incident reporting line and gave out free personal attack alarms in homophobic crime hotspots.

Police officers also volunteered their time at a local LGBT club to promote positive relationships between police and the LGBT community.

Activity organiser, PC Lindsey Nottingham said: 'As a result of the event, the team of volunteers has grown and a great impact has been made on the LGBT community as a whole. The volunteers.....feel proud of what they have achieved.'

CSV Ambassador Pete Waterman who presented the Award to PC Lindsey Nottingham and volunteer Dave Spindley, and £300 prize money to put towards the project said: 'It is impossible to under-estimate the impact that the work of volunteers has on the lives of others. We have heard some truly inspiring stories and we hope that they encourage even more people to volunteer in 2006.'

PC Linda Cody Wins BAWP 'Officer of the Year'

PC Linda Cody from Leicestershire has become the first winner of the British Association of Women in Policing 'Officer of the Year'.

The BAWP awards are intended to recognise the contributions and achievements of women within the police service and are the first awards in policing specifically aimed at women.

There were a total of 90 nominations across all the categories, and although all the winners this year are police officers, many nominations were received in respect of police staff and PCSOs, and from all parts of the UK.

All categories are open to female police officers, special constables, PCSOs and police staff. This is in line with the BAWP constitution to be fully inclusive of all personnel within the service. The winners of each category will be nominated for the International Association of Women Police awards, which will be presented in September in Saskatoon, Canada.

The other winners are as follows:

Leadership: Chief Inspector Lorraine Cussen, City of London Police

Community Service: Chief Inspector Julia Pendry, Metropolitan Police
Service

Mentoring: DCI Sharon Fielding, Humberside Police

Excellence in Performance: A/DI Amanda Bott, West Mercia Constabulary

Police Staff Achievement: Dr Eileen Cahill-Canning, Metropolitan Police Service

Bravery: Constable Deborah Russell-Fenwick, British Transport Police
Constable Teresa Milburn, West Yorkshire Police

Special Recognition Award: DCC Huw Jones, HMIC

Swindon Youth Offending Team Wins 1st Prize

The Swindon Youth Offending Team gained 1st prize at the Crimebeat Awards Ceremony 2006.

The winning team was awarded £250 for its Jump Mentoring Project, which will also be submitted to the National Crimebeat Awards to be held in London later in the year. The Young People Support Service gained 2nd prize for its Targeting Youth Project, and 3rd prize was awarded to Greendown Community School for its Anti-Bullying Campaign. These two groups received £150 & £100 respectively.

Sponsored by Nationwide Building Society, the evening was hosted by the High Sheriff of Wiltshire, Mr David Margesson MBE JP DL, and the Crimebeat Committee and compered by GWR FM DJ Gary Vincent.

Each group was judged on criteria set out by National Crimebeat, by a panel consisting of the Wiltshire Constabulary Deputy Chief Constable, Stephen Long, WCC Chief Executive, Dr Keith Robinson, Nationwide Head of Social & Environmental Responsibility, Andrew Litchfield and the High Sheriff of Wiltshire, David Margesson.

Deputy Chief Constable Stephen Long expressed his enthusiasm for Crimebeat, at the same time congratulating all of the groups showcasing that evening, by saying,

'Crimebeat provides young people with a real opportunity to take action to reduce crime. Each of the projects funded through Crimebeat this year demonstrates imaginative ways of achieving this objective. The final presentations, and in particular the three winners have made a difference to the young people involved and others who have been helped as a result of their efforts.'

Wiltshire and Swindon Crimebeat is a scheme, launched in 1995, which aims to give young people aged up to 25 an opportunity to help combat crime. It encourages groups of young people to work with friends to set up a project, either on their own initiative, or by drawing on the advice and support which can be received through school, college community group or youth organisation. The current High Sheriff chairs the Committee for his year in office. Groups can apply for a grant of up to £500.

Karen Smith Awarded Shrievalty Merit Individual Award

One of Thames Valley Police's most experienced and senior Scenes of Crime Officers has been honoured for her work.

Karen Smith, the acting Forensic Services Manager, based at Thame, was awarded the Shrievalty Merit Individual Award for investigating crime scenes including many high-profile murder enquiries during 2005.

Mrs Smith, who has been with Thames Valley Police since 1988, said: ‘I am absolutely delighted to receive this award and pleased that my work has been recognised in this way.

‘The award covers a particularly busy period for major crimes combined with the implementation of the Safer Homes campaign.

‘I therefore hope that this award will reflect on my colleagues in the Forensic Investigation Unit without whom we would not have been able to achieve such notable results.’

Acting Chief Constable Sara Thornton said: ‘The Shrievalty Award is very prestigious and the individual award in particular highlights exceptional work over a long period of time.

‘Karen Smith's award is very well deserved. Her role is a vitally important side of policing the public does not often see.

‘Her work has helped catch criminals using the latest methods and brings them to justice.’

The Force's Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) team was awarded the Shreivalty Merit Award, jointly shared with the Performance Group Support Unit.

During 2004/05 the unit was used in 242 proactive operations, made 1030 arrests and recovered 88 stolen vehicles valued at more than £1.3million.

Inspector Gary Grant, the ANPR team leader said: ‘This award recognises the efforts made by the ANPR Team, which comprises staff from both Crime Support and & Roads Policing. The team contributed towards the drive to improve the Force's sanction detection rate and detections and to effectively target criminals by making it more difficult for them to operate using cars.

‘This intelligence led and directed targeting of the criminal and illegal use of motor cars means that it is increasingly difficult for them to use the road network in Thames Valley without the likelihood of being stopped.

‘The team's effectiveness has been increased with the recent additional powers it has been given to seize of seizure of vehicles used illegally, and the first three weeks have seen the seizure of 81 vehicles from across the Force area’.

The Performance Group Support Unit developed a national and international reputation in helping the Force monitor its performance.

Their work has enabled senior managers to more clearly understand crime issues in particular areas, or in relation to a certain type of crime, identifying hot spots and helping the Force use its resources to best effect.

Sally LaBrooy, head of the Performance Group Support Unit, said: ‘I am extremely honoured that the Performance Group Support Unit was one of the two teams to receive this year's Shrievalty Team Award.

‘We service Thames Valley Police's Performance Group which was set up to enhance our approach to performance management and increase accountability amongst senior leaders within the service.

‘We are a small team and we are very pleased to be recognised in this way.’

Essex Police Officers Receive Bravery Awards

PS Paul Howell from Essex police was among a number of officers to have picked up a bravery award from the force.

PS Howell was awarded the Wilson Trophy. The officer jumped into the freezing waters of River Crouch last January to rescue a mentally ill woman who was intoxicated.

PC Michael Burrill and PC Ian Newling received a certificate for their courage when they apprehended a man with a knife. The officers tackled and disarmed a man wielding a knife in Southend.

PC Gary Rogers from Thurrock is also to receive a certificate for his courage. His vehicle was rammed by another when he attended an alarm activation at Lakeside shopping centre. Pc Rogers attempted to stop the vehicle and in the process he received multiple leg injuries. The driver was later sentenced at Southend Crown Court and disqualified from driving for 10 years.

Long service medals and annual force trophies will be presented to members of Essex Police by Her Majesty's Lord Lieutenant of Essex, Lord Petre, at a ceremony at Shire Hall, Chelmsford today (March 22nd) at 7.30pm.

Bhanu Jadeja Wins Achievement Award

A Leicestershire Enquiry desk officer has won an Achievement award. Bhanu Jadeja picked up the Woman of Determination trophy at the third annual Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland Women of Achievement Awards 2006.

Described as a pioneer in the police service Bhanu has clocked up 31-years in the police service. Now the longest serving Asian woman at Leicestershire Constabulary, Bhanu was born in Kenya and came to England in 1973. She joined the Force in April 1975 as a traffic warden.

The LeicestHERday Trust honoured Bhanu with the award at Walkers Stadium in recognition of the many barriers that she has overcome, and how she has continued to use her social status with determination as a driver for outstanding success.

Bhanu with the Chief Constable, Matt Baggott

Chief Superintendent Ian Stripp, central area commander said: 'Bhanu is a beacon officer, who reflects that people can and do make a difference with Leicestershire Constabulary.'

Bhanu Jadeja said: 'I am overwhelmed to be nominated and very pleased to receive this award. It is an honour for the whole of the Force rather than just for me. I would like to dedicate it to my wonderful daughter, Kam, who has been the prime motivation for my longstanding career with the police.

'I have always been keen to help people and speaking many different languages is very useful on the front desk! I just love doing the job as it has given me immense satisfaction and I would recommend a career with Leicestershire Constabulary to anyone.

'I am very grateful for the tremendous support I have received from officers, police staff and the public over the years and I am proud as a Gujarati woman to serve the diverse communities of Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland.'

Inspector Rich Hiom, of Mansfield House policing unit said: 'Congratulations to Bhanu who is a deserving winner of this award. She helps to deliver a police service that is second to none and is well respected by colleagues and the public alike. She is an excellent role model to those from ethnic minority communities who may be considering a career in the police force.'

Warwickshire Police Officers Receive Commendations

Seventeen Warwickshire Police officers have received a Area Commander's commendations for exceptional police work and 11 police officers were commended by Warwick District Council for partnership initiatives in Leamington Spa.

Among the recipients were Detective Inspector Naveed Malik and Police Constable Caroline Kelf who were commended for their handling of the investigation into the attempted murder of a school girl in Warwick. The 15 year-old offender was given an unprecedented nine year sentence for the assault.

Other recipients included:

Police Sergeant Stuart Bosworth, Acting Police Sergeant Michelle Clegg, Police Constable Simon Franklin, Police Constable Darren Keyte, Police Constable Tim O'Mahoney who were commended for their bravery at the scene of a fire that saved the lives of a mother and her child.

Police Constable Carl Buckley and Police Constable Leanne Mason saved the life of a Warwick resident and which also resulted in the detection of a serious assault.

Two special constables and a police constable were commended for their action in attempting to save the life of a man who had been struck by a heavy good vehicle. Both Senior Area Officer Graham Bell and Acting Area Officer Marc Smith carried out cardio pulmonary resusitation until the ambulance arrived whilst Police Constable Trevor Hall managed the scene. Unfortunately the injuries were so servere that the man died at the scene.

Detective Constable Geoff Milward and Detective Sergeant Simon Timerick provided professional support to the victim of a serious homophobic hate crime, carrying out a thorough investigation and compiling a comprehensive Court file that resulted in a custodial sentence for the offender.

The awards were presented by Chief Superintendent David Whitehouse, Area Commander for South Warwickshire at a ceremony at Stratford police station last week.

PC Trevor Hughes Wins Dorset's Arthur Hambleton Bobby Award

Dorset's PC Trevor Hughes, has won the force's Arthur Hambleton Bobby Award which is given to the uniform patrol officer who has made the most significant and outstanding contribution to the work of uniform police officers.

PC Hughes is a Community Beat Officer in the Boscombe area of Bournemouth and also a tutor constable, which means he is responsible for passing his expertise on to probationary officers.

He recently started working with the Community Crime Investigation Team, which is a first step towards moving into a career with CID at Bournemouth.

Bournemouth Divisional Commander, Chief Superintendent Bob Boulton, said: 'PC Hughes is a very enthusiastic officer with a good sense of humour who has the ability to get on with people. He has an honest and direct approach that has made him popular with his colleagues and the public.

'PC Hughes is able to communicate and deal with issues in a sensitive way but he is never afraid to take the lead and bring to justice those people who cause problems for the community,' he added.

PC Trevor Hughes demonstrated his innovative approach to community policing when he created a Safe Child Scheme in Boscombe, which helps to reunite lost children with their parents.

He travelled to North Wales in his own time to see how the scheme worked and then liaised with retailers and the Sovereign Centre - a shopping arcade in Boscombe - before securing funding and support from Bournemouth Borough Council.

The scheme - which promotes a safer neighbourhood in the area - received a positive response from the community.

Chief Superintendent Bob Boulton continued: 'PC Hughes is a well rounded and capable officer who goes the extra mile to deliver an excellent service to victims and the local community. He is well deserving of the Hambleton Bobby Award for 2005.'

Largest Ever Met Commendation Ceremony

The actions and bravery of Met officers and police staff in their response to the Asian tsunami and the London bombings last July have been recognised in the largest ever ceremony in the history of the Metropolitan Police.

More than 200 recipients were presented with Commissioner's Commendations - one of the highest honours in the Met.

A new solid silver pin badge has been introduced for recipients of Commissioner's High Commendations as a visible mark of recognition.

Commissioner Sir Ian Blair said: 'These two special commendation ceremonies give us the opportunity to reflect on and mark the bravery and commitment of officers and police staff in the MPS. This is the largest number of people that have ever been commended in one day in the history of the Met.

'I am proud of each and every one of our staff, they have a tough job to do in difficult and sometimes extreme circumstances and this ceremony is all about recognising that and saying thank you not just to them, but also to the families and friends who support them.'

Home Secretary Charles Clarke also acknowledged the work undertaken by officers and staff in both events. In a letter, he said: 'The police service showed extraordinary courage and dedication in undertaking the harrowing rescue and recovery work following the tsunami in December 2004 and the bomb attacks in central London. It is fitting that their courage and dedication is acknowledged today with the award of the Commissioner's Commendations.

'We have great expectations of our police service, and are immensely grateful to those who risk - and sometimes lose - their lives so the rest of us can live in peace and safety. I offer my sincere thanks to everyone involved in the aftermath of those appalling events, and to their families for the support they provided during such a difficult time.'

Tsunami
Around 1500 Met officers and staff have been deployed on Operation Bracknell, the police response to the tsunami, in support of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office and HM Coroner.

The operation began on 26th December 2004 with the opening of Casualty Bureau at Hendon, which recorded information on those people thought to be missing as a result of the wave.

The UK led the disaster victim identification operation in Sri Lanka until it finished in May and will continue to command the operation in Thailand until the end of February.

Operation Bracknell saw the largest ever deployment of family liaison officers - 300 in total across the country, providing information to families and ensuring all possible forensic data about each missing person was obtained.

London bombings
Operation Theseus is the Metropolitan Police response to the bombings in London on 7th July 2005 and involved thousands of officers and police staff. Roles undertaken by officers and staff included body recovery, work, disaster victim identification and mortuary management, support to HM Coroners and family liaison. The front-line response was backed up by services including welfare support, catering, supply of required equipment and resources and media handling.

56 people died, including the four men believed to be responsible for the explosions, and 700 people were injured. The identities of the four men were established in less than a week and all the deceased were identified within eleven days.

A terrorist investigation was also immediately started and remains ongoing.

Chief Superintendent Dave Thompson of the Manchester Metropolitan Division has awarded his commendation to The Reverend Canon Tony Porter for the role he has played in providing support to police officers.

Tony, 54, has been chaplain to the Manchester Metropolitan Division for eight years but is moving to Nottingham today where he will be consecrated as the Bishop of Sherwood.

Chief Superintendent Thompson said: 'Tony has been a real source of encouragement and support to our officers who have to deal with some very stressful situations. We are all very grateful for the time and effort he has invested in staff across the division. He will be sadly missed but we wish him all the best in his new role.'

As well as regular visits throughout the year, Tony has visited Greenheys Police Station in Moss Side every Christmas Eve for the past eight years. He brought cakes, chocolates and other gifts for police officers to thank them for their hard work.

Tony has been Rector of Holy Trinity church in Rusholme for over 14 years and admits he will miss Manchester but is looking forward to a new challenge.

Tony said: 'It's been a great privilege to support the magnificent work of the police in the inner city, to admire the serious risks they take on behalf of the community and to be a confidential Christian friend to many officers. I'm determined to continue this ministry in Nottinghamshire.'

The father of four also served as Chaplain to Manchester City Football Club for almost 10 years.

Reverend Pete Horlock of Holy Trinity church will take over as the division's new chaplain.

Gloucestershire Constabulary Wins CIPR PRide Award

Gloucestershire Constabulary has won an award for its public relations handling of the high profile arrest of a terrorist.

The force picked up the Gold award in the Crisis or Issues Management category at the Chartered Institute of Public Relations (CIPR) West of England PRide awards.

The award is in recognition of the force's efforts to maintain community relations following the arrest of Sajid Badat in November 2003, as well as deal with media enquiries.

Chief Inspector David Peake, Head of Media and Public Relations for the force, said: ‘The arrest of Sajid Badat took place at a time of heightened media interest in terrorism and it was one of the first such high profile arrests in Britain.

‘Not only were we deluged with enquiries from the media, we also had a duty to ensure we were informing the local community and partner agencies about what was happening.

‘We needed to minimise the disruption to local people, maintain the trust of the community, counter any increases in tension, crime and disorder, and, of course, ensure that the judicial process was not prejudiced.’

The judges found the force's public relations strategy had ‘successfully avoided the issues blowing into a huge crisis’.

The Chartered Institute of Public Relations PRide Awards 2005/6 received a record number of entries. Over 1,000 submissions were received by the 1st July 2005 deadline, up 25 per cent on the previous year.

Hertfordshire Officers Commended

PC Brian Gamble was one of seven Hertfordshire officers to be commended for their bravery by chief constable Frank Whiteley.

PC Gamble, based in North Watford, went to an address in Hemel Hempstead last February, after a woman called 999 to report her ex-partner had cut some gas pipes and was threatening to ignite the gas.

The officer helped evacuate an elderly neighbour before persuading the offender to hand over lighters he was holding before escorting him from the house.

A man was subsequently arrested and on June 16th, 2005, was sentenced to three years' imprisonment.

Commendations were also presented to officers from the Central Area who played a significant part in the investigation into drug supply over the Internet.

Sergeant Jason Collins, PC Pauline O'Sullivan (both based in St Albans) and two other officers assisted with the high profile case which also involved Sussex Constabulary and the National Hi-Tech Crime Unit.

The investigation culminated in the sentencing of four offenders for crimes relating to the supply of cannabis over the internet.

Mr Whiteley said the awards bear 'testimony to the extraordinary acts of courage, dedication and service performed by members of this Constabulary and our public'.

In all 11 police officers, two special constables and three members of police staff were awarded Long Service medals, while two Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs) and a member of public received the Royal Humane Society Award. A further three officers received Chief Constable's Commendations, two officers received Diplomas in Management and Certificates of Congratulations were also given out.

Met's Camberwell Green Safer Neighbourhood Team Scoops £10,000 Prize

The Met's Camberwell Green Safer Neighbourhood Team has been awarded a £10,000 prize in the finals of the capital's first Safer London Problem Solving Awards.

The team picked up the award on 8th February at the Safer Neighbourhoods: the future of policing event, a national conference to celebrate the success of the Metropolitan Police Service's Safer Neighbourhoods (SN) programme, sponsored by the Met, Metropolitan Police Authority and Safer London Foundation.

The project, set up to tackle street drinkers in Camberwell, was chosen from eight finalists, all demonstrating the importance of community and multi-agency participation in dealing effectively with concerns and problems.

More than 120 street drinkers, with a hard core of around 30, were identified as being in the area most of the time. Many had housing, health and money problems.
It will now become one of the Met's entries in the national problem solving Tilley awards, to be held in September 2006.

In the meantime, Southwark officers and their partners in the Safer Southwark Partnership are deciding how to reinvest the £10,000 in neighbourhood projects.
Street Population (street drinkers) in Camberwell was set up to tackle street related anti-social behaviour in Camberwell in March 2004.

Project manager for the police, PC Tim Otway of Camberwell Safer Neighbourhood Team, said: 'Generally the drinkers' presence reduced the quality of life for people living, working or travelling through the area. They were anti-social, engaging in drug misuse, prostitution, begging and petty theft. They discouraged the public from using parks or other open spaces.

Enforcement measures have also been used, including Anti Social Behaviour interventions where necessary. These measures were supported by Primary Care Trust and local authority service providers. A 'Wet Centre' was opened and changes made to the physical environment.

Chief Superintendent Ian Thomas, Southwark borough commander, said: 'The results so far are clear to see. Between March 2004 and March 2005, there were on average 50 visible street drinkers in Camberwell, seven days a week. In the last quarter of 2005, there were only five visible street drinkers in the area, drinking on two days a week.

'In addition, many people have given up drinking and there are increasing numbers of people applying for help to give up drinking. The scheme has been evaluated and hailed as a great example of partnership working. We are very gratified to see the project given this recognition and are determined to carry on the good work.'

PC Dave Hughes to Receive Chief Constables Commendation

An Avon and Somerset police officer who tackled a knife-wielding man in Taunton has been praised for his actions.

PC Dave Hughes, who has been with force for ten years, will be presented with a chief constables commendation at an awards ceremony following the incident which happened in June, 2005.

The officer was called to a house following reports from a woman that her partner was in an agitated state.

When he and his colleague PC Day got there, they were confronted by a man, brandishing a kitchen knife.

PC Day protected other occupants in the house while PC Hughes spoke to the man to try and diffuse the situation.

PC Hughes said: 'The man started throwing household items including chairs, mugs and frying pans at us. We tried to contain the situation to protect other people in the house, but the man smashed a kitchen window and ran away.'

PC Hughes gave chase and followed the man who then threatened the officer with a second knife.

The officer had to use CS Spray and strike the man with an Asp in order to detain him. He was arrested by officers and charged with affray and being in possession of bladed articles. He was sentenced to six months in prison.

Sergeant Derek Bremner said: 'PC Hughes showed impressive amounts of personal courage and displayed leadership qualities. He had confidence in his equipment and training and effected an excellent arrest without exposing the public, his colleagues or himself to undue risk.'

PC Lee Andrews to Receive Royal Humane Society Award

A police officer who rescued a woman from Bristol Docks is to receive a Royal Humane Society Award.

PC Lee Andrews, from Avon and Somerset police, dived into the pontoon near Poole Wharf on Saturday December 17th 2004 to rescue a 39-year-old woman who was shouting for help.

He was carrying out drink driving tests on Hotwells Road when he and his colleagues heard the woman shouting for help at 12.20am.

They engaged her in conversation and tried to encourage her to swim back to the shore, but her condition rapidly deteriorated due to the freezing water and she was struggling to stay above water. PC Andrews removed his outer clothing and boots and dived in to rescue her.

He swam out about 50 feet, took hold of her, and got her to the shore, where his colleagues put her in the recovery position, administered First Aid, and called an ambulance. By this time, she had lost consciousness.

The woman, then 39-years-old, was taken to the BRI, detained overnight, but returned home the next day.

PC Andrews said: 'It's obviously a real honour to be awarded like this, but I know that any of my fellow officers would have acted in exactly the same way without hesitation.'

The award will be presented by Chief Constable Colin Port.

Burnham on Sea Siege Officers Honoured

Nine police officers who dealt with a siege will be honoured at an awards ceremony.

The officers were called to a property in Burnham on Sea after a man barricaded himself in his home in an attempt to prevent building work to be carried out to a nearby premises.

The man was unhappy about the work being carried out and threatened the workmen. He removed roof tiles and emerged through a hole in the roof brandishing a petrol bomb.

A police support group entered the property to remove an elderly occupant to safety. Three of the officers spoke to the man in an attempt to calm him down, but were doused with petrol in the process.

The man set fire to the petrol causing a fireball which spread across an area of the house and set fire to PC Neil Holand, PC Paul Fox and PC Shad Hussain.

The officers managed to put the flames out and sprayed CS spray into the loft space. Other officers, who accessed the property from a different direction, then arrested the man. He was charged with arson with intent to endanger life.

Chief inspector John Holt said: 'The officers executed their duty with courage, respect and total professionalism. All of the officers deserve recognition for their actions which brought an individual, who was a danger to himself and others, safely into custody.'

Award for St Albans Team

An plan to tackle anti-social behaviour and disorder in St Albans that resulted in Hertfordshire's first ever 'crack house' closure, has won an community award.

The Hertfordshire Problem Oriented Partnerships Award for 2005 was presented to St Albans Community Sergeant Debbie O'Malley, Ward Constable Graham Hiscock, Youth Action Worker Sandra Bracher and St Albans District Council's Anti-Social Behaviour Co-ordinator Neil Kieran.

Presenting the Award, chief superintendent Alison Roome-Gifford said the initiative had been ‘truly dynamic’ and that ‘the considerable sensitivities were very well managed’.

She added: ‘All the agencies played an equal part resulting in a long standing solution. The impact of this initiative has been significant.’

The initiative was one of six that were shortlisted for the Awards, which are hosted by Hertfordshire Constabulary. The presentation was made at the Constabulary's annual Problem Solving conference held late last year.

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