IN RECOGNITION of their excellent service to their communities, Police Officers across Wiltshire received awards at the annual Force Awards on November 19 in Bradford on Avon.

The packed event recognised the work of officers with Certificates of Merit, Chief Constable Commendation, Long Service Awards and Long Service Good Conduct awards.

Figureheads from Wiltshire’s police forces were present, such as Chief Constable Mike Veale, Temporary Assistant Chief Constables Paul Mills and Kier Pritchard along with High Sheriff Lady Gooch and Lord Lieutenant Mrs Sarah Troughton among others.

Devizes based Police staff member, David Matthews, was delighted to accept his award for what Super Intendent Chris Chammings described as outstanding work in digital forensics which is nationally recognised.

“I am absolutely thrilled with the award. I love what I do,” said Mr Matthews. “I love the idea that the investigative work I do is bringing about important results and contributing to the force going forward.”

Introduced by Superintendent Mark Sellers, Long Service Awards were presented to Police Staff members from Devizes Headquarters, Jill Fuller and Julia Gay.

Mr Veale brought the evening to a close and said: “Thank you all, for your hard work, dedication and meticulous work to protect and keep people safe.”

“I work with outstanding, talented and inspirational people every day and that makes me very proud. It is not just a job, it is a way of life. Thank you.”

Chief Constable’s Certificates of Appreciation and Merit - Devizes: Police Staff member David Matthews – Digital Forensics; Inspector James Brain.

Long Service and Good Conduct medal winners – Devizes: Sergeant Vincent Logue – Neighbourhood Policing Team; Police Constable Martin Robson – Armed Response; Police Constable Samantha Kelly – Crime Management Unit; Inspector Philip Staynings; Police Constable Rich Hatch – Armed Response.

Long Service Certificate – Devizes: Police Staff members Jill Fuller and Julia Gay.