Two South Yorkshire Police officers who sprang into action to prevent a robbery while off-duty on a night out have won a South Yorkshire Police Federation Bravery Award.<\/p>\n
PC Spacie and a colleague who asked not to be named were among 11 colleagues across the force being recognised at the Federation\u2019s first ever annual event for their superb police work and their off duty bravery.<\/p>\n
The pair were in a taxi in Sheffield in May last year when they spotted a group of masked men on motorbikes trying to steal a vintage motorbike that was parked by the side of the road.<\/p>\n
From their taxi, which was travelling along Sheffield\u2019s Ecclesall Road, they saw the group acting dangerously and running red lights. When they saw them attempt to steal the bike, they told the driver to stop the taxi.<\/p>\n
Wearing dresses and heels, the two officers sprinted over to the robbery without any safety equipment or back-up. They shouted at the men to stop and tried to grab one, but they jumped on their bikes and sped away.<\/p>\n
They prevented the motorbike from being stolen however, and it was returned to the owner.<\/p>\n
PC Spacie, a response constable at Fosseway Police Station, said: \u201cWe\u2019d left our phones in the taxi because we just jumped out that quick. So we asked a member of the public to phone 999.<\/p>\n
\u201cI think it was just instinct really. You see these men about to commit a crime. You think, \u2018I\u2019m not going to let them do that\u2019. You like to think someone else would stop someone from stealing your property. We didn\u2019t want to sit back and watch that happen.\u201d<\/p>\n
The officers took witness statements before going on their way and enjoying their night out – despite being smeared with motor oil.<\/p>\n
On winning a South Yorkshire Police Federation Bravery Award, PC Spacie added: \u201cIt\u2019s nice – but we didn\u2019t expect to be recognised. We didn\u2019t expect anything from it. It was just one of those things that we had a laugh about after.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt\u2019s unfortunate they got away. But at least we managed to stop that theft in the moment.\u201d<\/p>\n
South Yorkshire Police Federation Chair Steve Kent said: \u201cWhat incredible work from these colleagues \u2013 especially considering they were on a well-deserved day off and a night out.<\/p>\n
\u201cHowever in reality \u2013 and this must be remembered – police officers are always working, even when they are off duty as this incident shows. We do not walk on by.<\/p>\n
\u201cDespite the fact that these two officers had no support and no safety equipment, they took these criminals on. It was a courageous and noble act; they didn\u2019t know if those men were armed or dangerous.<\/p>\n
\u201cThey are a credit to themselves and a credit to the service. They should feel proud of their actions that night.\u201d<\/p>\n
The duo were recognised at the South Yorkshire Police Federation Bravery Awards ceremony on 16 June.<\/p>\n
The Awards are in Association with The Northern Healthcare Scheme. The hashtag for the event is #SYPFBravery.<\/p>\n
The National Police Bravery Awards are sponsored by Police Mutual.<\/p>\n