Wiltshire Police volunteer celebrated at South West Region Awards

By Tyler Ody - 16 October 2019

Crime

Special constables, cadet leaders and volunteer drivers were amongst the dedicated police volunteers commended at the South West Region Special Constabulary and Police Volunteer Awards last Sunday (13 October 2019).

This year hosted by Avon and Somerset Police at Somerset County Cricket ground in Taunton, the awards recognise the time, effort and invaluable contributions given by those who volunteer in policing across the entire south west region. The event was compered by former footballer and vice-president of Show Racism The Red Card; Leroy Rosenior MBE, and attended by police volunteers, police staff and senior officials from all south west constabularies.

Winners were announced across five categories: Police Support Volunteer of the Year, Special Constable of the Year, Innovation in Policing, Police Support Volunteer Team of the Year and Special Constabulary Team of the Year Arthur Ellis Memorial.

Amongst those awarded was Wiltshire Police volunteer John Hancock who was awarded Police Support Volunteer of the Year Award for his dedication to serving Wiltshire Police and his community.

Since retiring from his duties as a police officer, John has continued to show his commitment by opening a weekly police information point at his local police station, visiting different locations in his town to provide guidance and advice, and providing invaluable support to anyone who needs it.

Other winners included, a dedicated team in Gloucestershire policing the strategic road network, a volunteer driver service for Avon and Somerset Police in Patchway, transporting officers to important tasks such as attending court, and a Devon and Cornwall project that aims to reduce the offending rates of individuals who present with mental ill-health.

Assistant Chief Constable Maggie Blyth said: “We are really proud that John has been recognised for the contribution he makes to Wiltshire Police and his local community.

“John has shown remarkable commitment throughout his years as an officer and now as a volunteer.

“He goes out of his way to support his Community Policing Team, and ensure his community is kept informed.  

“John’s dedication is a fine example of public service and we are very grateful to John for all the time he gives. We are lucky to have him as part of our police family.”

Angus Macpherson, Police and Crime Commissioner for Wiltshire and Swindon said: “Volunteering plays an important part within our communities and within our police service.

"Sir Robert Peel, the founder of modern policing said that the police are the public and the public are the police. This principle still stand today and when we think of John Hancock this could not be truer.

“As a police officer John was supporting his community, and in retirement he has continued to share his time, experience and advice.

“Thank you John for all the support you have given the Police Force and community, we are all delighted you have been recognised with this award.”

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