Hero PC Ian Dibell gets posthumous Police Bravery Award

AN ESSEX Police officer shot dead when he tackled a gunman in the street near his home has posthumously been given a national bravery award.

PC Ian Dibell, 41, was voted as the overall winner of the Police Bravery Awards at a ceremony in London. His brothers Neil (left) and Paul (right) received the award from Home Secretary Theresa May.

Insp Paul Dibell, of Essex Police, said: “I’m humbled. It’s a privilege to be here to celebrate Ian’s life and be here for his colleagues as well who do a fantastic job.”

Neil Dibell said: “What he did was just Ian all over. He was always there for other people and putting other people before himself. He would’ve loved this if he was here now. He was always up for a show and having a good time.”

PC Dibell died while trying to stop gunman Peter Reeve, who had fired at a couple in Clacton, Essex, in July last year.

He was selected as the overall winner after 64 officers were nominated for awards by 37 forces across England and Wales.

Mark Smith, Essex Police Federation chairman, said: “We’re very proud of Ian’s actions. He very sadly paid the ultimate sacrifice while protecting the public he served.”

Prime Minister David Cameron said: “Every day a police officer goes to work they’re putting their lives on the line. Tragically for Ian and his family that’s what happened.

“He was not even on duty but he went towards danger to protect others and that says so much about policing in this country.”

Home Secretary Theresa May said: “I’ve heard some amazing stories about the bravery of our police officers who will put themselves in danger to keep the rest of the public safe. What’s particularly incredible about this story is that Ian Dibell was not even on duty. It’s an amazing story of courage.”