A POLICE dog was amongst those celebrated for their bravery at the Herefordshire Commendations and Award Ceremony.

The event at Hereford’s Town Hall recognised the dedication of officers, staff and civilians from West Mercia Police and other partner agencies who keep the county safe.

For the first time in the event’s history, a Police Dog was presented with the Chief Constable’s Commendation award.

Police Dog Bacca was recognised alongside his handler PC Mike Davey for their actions during an incident in Bromyard in June where they both received knife wounds.

PC Jack Lewis and PC Jim Cooke were also recognised for how they handled the situation.

Sgt Dan Fenn, PC Nic Prosser and PC Mark Simpson were commended for their compassion when dealing with the aftermath of a fatal collision that happened last September. PC Simpson was also recognised for going above and beyond in helping the family in the months that followed the tragic event.

The importance of collaboration was celebrated with the High Sheriff’s Award being presented to members of the Multi Agency Targeted Enforcement Strategy (MATES).

Jacqueline O’Mahony, from Herefordshire Council; Station Commander Sean Bailey from Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service, and Aeltaf Kahn from the West Midlands Immigration Compliance and Enforcement Team, were all recognised for their work.

PC Katherine Holder was celebrated for her work into a harassment investigation, where she built up a rapport with the victim and worked to ensure the perpetrator was brought to justice.

PC Marcus Garland was praised for his prompt action in saving a man’s life last September, where his professionalism helped support the man in the hours that followed, while PC Wayne Strangwood was awarded for risking danger to himself to save a woman’s life in August 2017.

Sgt Greg Atherton, Det Sgt Nick Shutt, Det Con Mark Jones, and Det Con Laurence James, Det Con Paul Cowmeadow, Sgt Whitchurch, PC Rudgard, PC Townsend and PC Beswick were also celebrated..

Special Constable Probationer of the Year Award was presented to SC Charlie Bennett who has completed over 600 hours of duties. Acting Special Sergeant Phil Millichip was recognised for passing on his knowledge to his peers.

Superintendent Sue Thomas said: “Over the years of my policing service, I have witnessed many changes, but one thing that never changes or falters is the bravery, commitment and professionalism of the staff of West Mercia Police and those agencies and people who work alongside us in protecting the people of Herefordshire.

“Good work is going on every day in the county, which helps it to remain a low crime area.

“The variety of awards which were given out on Thursday recognises some truly outstanding work.”