Officers recognised in New Year’s Honours

THE federated ranks of the UK police service have been well-recognised in the New Year’s Honours, with five officers being awarded the Queen’s Policing Medal for distinguished service.

PC John Anwar, of Derbyshire Constabulary, Det Sgt Neil Fowler, Lancashire, former-PC Martyn Hillier, of Gloucestershire and the Met’s Sgt Eric Stuart were awarded the QPM – an honour usually heavily bestowed on police chiefs.

Greater Manchester Police’s DC Pete Rickards also received a QPM for his work in the force’s Family Liaison Team. His ‘groundbreaking work and expertise‘ has been used by forces nationally, according to GMP and he has frequently represented the force in high profile murder cases.

PC Rickards said: ‘Being a family liaison officer is always, in my opinion, an unbelievable privilege. To be allowed into someone’s home in the immediate aftermath of a homicide, or other life-changing event, and to act as both an investigator and a guide for families through the legal processes, is an honour.’

‘Over the years I have had dealings with many families, and while they have been coping with the worst event in their lives, I have been completely overwhelmed by their humility and kindness for others. It is this faith in other human beings that makes being a family liaison officer such a worthwhile occupation, and I would like to thank absolutely everyone who has assisted me over the years.’

Met Deputy Assistant Commissioner Maxine de Brunner, Deputy Chief Constable David Thompson of West Midlands Police, GMP’s Assistant Chief Garry Shewan and Chief Constable Deborah Simpson of Dorset Police all recieved QPMs – which bear the inscription ‘to guard my people’.

Steve Williams, chairman of the Police Federation of England and Wales, said: “It is excellent to see that the outstanding work, commitment and professionalism of so many rank and file officers are recognised in the New Year Honours list.

“It is a great reflection on our members and their continued selfless dedication, despite the huge challenges they continue to face – keeping our communities safe with less money, officers and staff and resources. I would like to express my sincere gratitude and admiration to you all.”

DCI Linda Dawson from Hampshire Police was awarded an MBE for her work to protect victims of stalking, while volunteer police officer from Leeds, Special Constable Alistair McFadyen, was awarded an MBE.