A night of celebration for officers, staff and volunteers

It was a night of celebration for police officers, staff and volunteers who came together from across Herefordshire, Shropshire and Worcestershire for West Mercia Police’s Quality Policing Awards. 

The event was held on Friday evening (31 January), bringing together over 46 people who had been nominated by colleagues or by members of the community for going above and beyond their duty or making a difference.  

Police Constable Russ Bunce was named Police Officer of the Year for going over and above to help others, offering support and guidance and assisting colleagues. PC Bunce was also the driving force behind a charity golf tournament in memory of Police Constable Andy Boardman who sadly lost his life whilst on duty in Shropshire on 11 April 2023. 

The Police Community Support Officer of the Year was given to Jordan Newborough who has shown real dedication and commitment to his role, going above what is expected of him to support his colleagues and the community. 

Temporary Chief Constable Richard Cooper said: “The Quality Policing Awards are our opportunity to recognise the officers, staff, and volunteers who go beyond what is expected to keep our communities safe. Once again, we have heard remarkable examples of outstanding bravery, inspirational leadership and compassionate support to victims.

"I am incredibly proud to lead an organisation where people exceed expectations and show exceptional dedication to the public and to the service we provide.

"At the event we also honour members of the public who have worked alongside us to make a difference in their communities. Their support is invaluable, and we are grateful for their commitment to public safety.

"I would also like to thank our sponsors, whose generosity funds this event. Their support allows us to celebrate those who serve West Mercia Police with such dedication and selflessness.”

Police and Crime Commissioner John Campion said: “It always fills me with immense pride to recognise and celebrate the selfless acts of ordinary men and women who make up West Mercia Police, forming the thin blue line which keeps local communities safe.

“I once again presented the Victims’ Champion Award with victims and witnesses being at the heart of my police and crime plan. The award rightly shines a light on those who help the most vulnerable in our society on the journey to cope and recover.”

 

The award categories and winners are:

Police Officer of the Year sponsored by CBRE

Police Constable Russ Bunce

Russ goes above and beyond to help others, whether offering support and guidance or simply assisting colleagues. You’ll find him at community engagements, proactively participating in operations, or patrolling the streets. Recently, Russ was the driving force behind a successful charity golf tournament in memory of our fallen colleague, Andy Boardman. It was a huge task and Russ’ tremendous effort made it a memorable occasion for spectators, participants, and Andy’s family. Known as a safe pair of hands, Russ delivers the best service to the public and those around him.

 

Bravery Award sponsored by the Police Federation

Police Constable Kully Singh and Police Constable Stacey Hegenbarth

Putting yourself in front of a car going at 80mph isn’t a decision to take lightly, but to save many innocent people, Kully and Stacey did just that. On 30 July 2024 after receiving over 20 calls to the police, reporting a vehicle driving the wrong way down the M5 towards stationary traffic, PC Singh PC Hegenbarth understood the possible consequences ahead. In a split decision to intercept it with their own vehicle, they sustained injuries including whiplash, concussion, and bruising to the abdomen. Their courage holds no bounds and their actions, without a doubt, saved many innocent lives that day.

 

Community Thank You Award sponsored by Solo Service Group

Shanzy And, Nathan Palmer, and Dr Mohammed Waheed

In August 2024, whilst families were enjoying their time at an activity centre a 14-year-old suffered a psychotic breakdown and attempted to stab people around him. Shanzy, also a child, instantly tackled the male, showing total disregard for her own safety. After a struggle, she managed to remove the knife and was quickly joined by Nathan and Mohammed, who managed to restrain the boy until officers arrived to take over. Without Shanzy, Nathan and Mohammed showing such fearlessness and courage, the outcome could have been very different. Thank you for being such commendable members of our community.

 

Inspirational Leadership Award sponsored by CDW

Sergeant Katie Ward

Sergeant Katie Ward’s impact on the team has been instrumental since arriving at Rubery Police Station - from working collaboratively with partner agencies to tackle local community issues, to standing up for what is right in the workplace. The relationships developed through partnership work and colleagues have contributed greatly to making her an exceptional leader. Katie is described as “one of the best,” “a superhuman who is compassionate and caring, whose inclusive nature and strong values have sought change in the organisation for the better.” It’s the little things in life that make a difference, and Katie’s impact is proof of that.

 

Investigator of the Year sponsored by Axon Public Safety UK LTD

Detective Constable Ben Kings

With an investigative mindset and a passion for bringing offenders to justice, Ben exemplifies what it means to be a detective. His compassion and courage shine through in every incident he handles. From uncovering international fraud worth three million pounds, to seizing over 170 dangerous weapons and rescuing victims of modern-day slavery, Ben's management of these complex cases, alongside numerous other investigations, is truly inspiring. His devotion goes beyond keeping communities safe; he also supports, shares his knowledge, and guides his team. Not only is he a shining example of a detective, but a colleague many can trust.

 

Police Community Support Officer of the Year sponsored by BT PLC

Police Community Support Officer Jordan Newborough

If there is someone who does it all, it’s Jordan. Whether dressed up as Peeler the Dog for children or helping at Knit and Natter at his local Methodist Church in Telford, you will find Jordan interacting with all members of the community. He shows dedication, commitment, and professionalism, going above and beyond expectations to support colleagues and the community, taking on every challenge thrown his way. His partnership work is outstanding, as is the knowledge he holds and shares with his peers. He is a colleague, a tutor, and a friend to many.

 

Police Staff Member of the Year sponsored by Cpcdrive in partnership with Tusker

Sarah Harris

Sarah has made an impact on her team and others in ways she doesn’t realise. She is caring, understanding, and puts the needs of her colleagues and the public above her own. From giving up her time to train officers, being an integral part of the ePMS system upgrade, and helping a distressed member of the public to find their way to Malinsgate police station, her commitment, expertise, and caring nature have been key in her journey to becoming a Senior Property Officer. She goes above and beyond and, unbeknownst to her, brings value to the force every day.

 

Prevention and Problem-Solving Award sponsored by YAFFY

PC Scott Gee, Inspector Steph Arrowsmith, James Iles, Mark McCann, and Rhys Atkinson

Most fatal collisions on our roads involve male drivers aged 18-44. To reach this group, Scott, Steph, James, and Rhys teamed up with Mark McCann, a multiple motor racing champion, car enthusiast and YouTube personality. Together, they created a powerful video on the consequences of driving under the influence of drugs. With over 350,000 views, the video not only reached the intended audience but inspired many to reflect on their past actions. This innovative and creative approach has the potential to save lives and make our roads safer.

 

Team of the year sponsored by Heartlands

Serious Collision Investigation Unit

The Serious Collision Investigation Unit is a small team who show unbelievable determination to do right by bereaved families and achieve convictions in court. Despite not being on call, they always respond without fail when an incident occurs. They have handled many fatal collisions and have significantly increased prosecutions since their inception. Notably, a triple fatal collision, where their investigative efforts led to the UK’s longest sentence for causing death by dangerous driving - 19 years and two months. The team’s ethos, spirit, and determination make a profound difference to those who have lost loved ones.

 

Victims’ Champion Award sponsored by West Mercia Police Crime Commissioner John Campion

Detective Constable Becky Jasper

Becky led Operation Extract, an attempted murder investigation in Telford, where the victim suffered life-threatening injuries. Throughout the investigation, Becky’s dedication shone as she kept the family informed and reassured. She visited the hospital, provided specialist domestic abuse support, and guided the family with compassion. Becky navigated the justice process, alleviating anxiety and ensuring the victim's voice was heard throughout. Her meticulous file preparation led to the defendant pleading guilty, resulting in an 18-year, 10-month sentence with a three-year extended license. Becky’s unwavering care and dedication positively impacted the victim and her family.

 

Volunteer of the Year (Specials, Volunteers, Cadets) sponsored by Talent

Special Constable Neil Morley

Neil is an exceptional individual who dedicates much of his own time to working with officers on OPU. The difference he makes and the value he adds make him a massive asset to the team and force. A popular member of the team, he volunteered a staggering 1,010 hours from June 2023 to 2024, assisted in 42 arrests, attended 72 road traffic collisions, and completed 340 proactive stops. This is just a snapshot of what Neil has given to West Mercia Police and the communities we serve. The commitment he demonstrates week in, and week out is awe-inspiring.

 

Chief Constable's Award sponsored by Telefonica Tech

Police Community Support Officer Tracey Walker

Tracey epitomises everything a Police Community Support Officer should be – caring, professional, knowledgeable, and approachable. With over 16 years of experience as a PCSO in Ellesmere, Tracey is truly at the heart of her community and is well respected by all. Always keen to help expedite investigations when she is not patrolling you will find Tracey on the lookout for information and intelligence to keep her community safe, working closely with other departments and partners. Whether it’s for advice, guidance, or support, Tracey always makes herself available and is someone who many trust.  

 

 

 

Issued by JF, Corporate Communications.