Herefordshire Local Policing Area Commander, Superintendent Sue Thomas expressed her pride in local officers at the recent Herefordshire Police annual medal and awards ceremony.

“I am immensely proud to be the Local Superintendent for Herefordshire, our officers and staff are determined to protect and engage with our communities and go the ‘extra mile.’ All the officers and staff here tonight, including our police dogs have shown skills, bravery, dedication and commitment.”

Among those honoured was Ross-on-Wye Police Constable Shirley Hawkins and Deputy Mayor of Ross, Councillor Dan Lister was among the guests.

The ceremony was opened by Superintendent Sue Thomas and Chief Constable Anthony Bangham. Awards were presented by Chief Constable Anthony Bangham, High Sheriff of Herefordshire, James Hervey-Bathurst, Sir John Foley and Superintendent Sue Thomas

The event was attended by the recipients, their friends and families, The Right Worshipful The Mayor of Hereford, Cllr Kath Hey and Mr James Hey, The Mayor and Mayoress of Bromyard & Wilmslow, Cllr Roger Page and Mrs Claire Davies, The Mayor and Mayoress of Leominster, Cllr Clive Thomas and Mrs Judy Thomas, The Mayor of Ledbury, Cllr Phillip Howells, Cllr Lister and Miss Jenny Steele, officers from West Mercia Police and Police Cadets.

Among the awards presented was the High Sheriff’s Award to Stuart Phillips, Scamp and Yo-Yo. Stuart, who runs a specialist dog search company has played a significant part with Scamp and Yo-Yo in the fight against those responsible for illicit tobacco offences. Stuart, Scamp and Yoyo have accompanied the MATES team on 20 search warrants and enforcement visits to premises across the county.

The Superintendent’s commendations are presented to officers deemed to have performed their duties to a high standard under difficult circumstances or above and beyond normal expectations. Commendations were presented to: Detective Sergeant Jamie Bullock, Detective Constable Peter Dunne, Detective Constable Emma Atherton, Detective Constable Peter Bradbury, Detective Sergeant Nicky Cleeton, and Ross-on-Wye Police Constable Shirley Hawkins.