WILTSHIRE Police’s finest have received awards from special commendations to certificates of excellence, which put a spotlight on the actions of 25 officers, staff, special constables and members of the public, thanking them for their work.

Amongst those honoured were Trowbridge-based officers PCSO Mike Obern and PCSO James Bates, with Tri-Force dog handler PC Simon Goodwin and police dog Fozzy, who saved the life of a suicidal woman by pulled her from the river near Bradford on Avon last September.

Special Constables Danny Sergiu and Nick Earle, who are now stationed in Trowbridge, received awards for an operation in Swindon where they arrested a 16-year-old boy who was a known violent offender after a chase through Penhill. The boy, who had been known to the police and was suspected to be armed, was chased by the officers and finally caught and arrested.

Officer Sergiu said: “When we found him he was with his family outside of the house, when he asked if he was being nicked we said yes, he went to put his coat on but then suddenly legged it off. We chased him, knowing the possibility of him having a knife, and finally got hold of him.”

SC Earle said: “The lad was known to the police for a history of violent behaviour. He was alleged to have stabbed someone so we went round there. He was very proud of his 143 offences.”

Detective sergeant Claire Smith, based in Melksham, was honoured for her part in an investigation into historic sex offences in Swindon. In 2013 DS Smith followed up reports of sexual abuse by one man involving three victims in the 1990s. After the third victim came forward with new evidence, DS Smith re-investigated and presented a case summary to the Crown Prosecution Service which resulted in the arrest of a man on seven counts of historic sexual abuse who was then imprisoned for more than 17 years.

Another officer from Melksham, Detective Constable Janet Thomas, received an award for her work in a current and historical child sexual abuse enquiry which led to a man being sent to prison for 20 years. Throughout the investigation, DC Thomas was said to have always put the victims first and provided them and their families with support.

As well as awards for bravery in the line of duty, officers were also recognised for their hard work in the office and their training of fellow policemen and women.

Retired Inspector Graham Fisher, who was stationed at Police HQ in Devizes, received the Chief Constable’s Inspirational Leaders' Award for his dedication to the training of officers and staff and his proven leadership skills.

Gregory Page, also based at Police HQ, was given an Outstanding Innovation and Creativity award for developing a number of applications which help the police in making better evidence-based decisions.

Chief Constable Mike Veale told the ceremony, held last Wednesday at Cumberwell Park in Bradford on Avon: “This year will mark my 33rd year in the police service and the Force Awards is a timely reminder of the many fantastic things that happen within the service.

“It provides a glimpse into the work of the Force and I’m delighted that I’ve had a chance to say thank you for the outstanding contribution to the Force and to our public, and also show appreciation to friends, family and loved ones who provide them with such support."

Angus Macpherson, Police and Crime Commissioner for Wiltshire and Swindon, said: “I never fail to be inspired and uplifted by the stories of courage, dedication and determination that are told at each of our Force awards ceremonies."