15th July 2008

PC Polly Price and PC Sue Beament (Hereford)

were awarded a Divisional Commendation for their swift response to the scene of an armed robbery and for their decisive and brave action in challenging and arresting one of the suspects when he was visibly in possession of a firearm.

At 10pm on Monday 28th January 2008, two males entered a shop in Bellebank Avenue, Hereford. One of them pointed a gun at the pregnant shop assistant, demanding cigarettes, whiskey and money. They then left the store and the police were immediately called. PC Price and PC Beament responded by searching the area for the offenders, whose descriptions had been circulated over the radio.

Shortly after, two other officers found the suspects who ran off. The officers called for urgent assistance and gave chase. As PC's Price and Beament arrived, they found their male colleague wrestling with one suspect on the floor, the other had his hands in the surrender position, with the gun still in his hand. PC Price shouted to him to drop the weapon, which he did, allowing them to detain him as well.

One offender was later jailed for 7 years at Worcester Crown Court, his accomplice receiving 5 years in a Young Offenders Institution. Both officers knew the suspects were armed (albeit it was later found to be an unloaded air weapon) but did not hesitate to respond to the call or challenge the armed suspect when they found him. Their two colleagues, who first confronted the offenders, received Chief Constable's Commendations for their actions. Their awards were presented by the Chief Constable.

PC Paul O'Reilly (Leominster)

was awarded a Divisional Commendation for his dedication and commitment to Local Policing in Leominster and for service to the local community in reducing anti-social behaviour in the town.


In Dec 2006, Leominster Town Centre was suffering from anti-social disorder caused by a number of local youths. PC O'Reilly gathered intelligence on those responsible and, through the use of a Dispersal Order and warning letters with parental involvement, the problem started to ease. He followed this up with Acceptable Behaviour Contracts for a number who continued and brought four persistent offenders to court, where they had ASBO's awarded against them in July 2007 and Feb 2008.



Instrumental in introducing an alcohol-free zone in public within parts of the town centre, Paul has help to achieve a large decrease in levels of anti-social behaviour and calls to police in the town. His work is highly regarded by the local community, and he has made a major contribution both to enhancing community safety and increasing satisfaction and confidence in the police.

DC Steve Perkins and DC Sue Prosser (Hereford CID)

were awarded a Divisional Commendation for their tenacity and detective ability during the investigation into the criminal activities of a teacher at Wessington Court School In April 2006, police began an investigation into allegations of sexual and physical abuse of pupils at the aforementioned school by a member of staff, Frank Joynson. The complaints spanned a period of three decades and it was soon realised this would be a large, lengthy and complex investigation. DC Perkins and DC Prosser travelled throughout the UK to meet and build up relationships with the many victims and witnesses in the case. The accounts taken were almost always harrowing, embarrassing and traumatic. Their diligence, professionalism, together with their detective and interpersonal skills enabled them to gather vital evidence that was critical to the outcome of the case. In November 2007, Joynson was found guilty at Hereford Crown Court on 14 counts of sexual abuse including rape, which resulted in a total of 39 years imprisonment, though many were concurrent. This ensured he would spend the next 13 years in prison. Three further members of the Constabulary staff received Chief Constable's or Divisional Commendations for their part in the investigation.

DS Martyn Barnes (Hereford CID)

was awarded a Divisional Commendation for commitment, perseverance and leadership during the investigation into the criminal activities of a teacher at Wessington Court School



DS Barnes became involved in the Wessington Court School enquiry in summer 2007. He quickly assimilated the case, ensured the pre-trial stage was correctly managed, handling the support care and production of witnesses at the trial, the latter leading to the co-operation and attendance of all victims at court. He worked tirelessly to meet the victims' needs and counter the arguments created by a professional and dedicated defence team. DS Barnes also held a victims conference at the end of the trial, allowing them to ask questions, understand the whole police investigation and give closure.



All members of the investigation team in this case were also commended by the judge at Hereford Crown Court.

Sgt Alex Warner (Ross on Wye)

was awarded a Divisional Commendation for meritorious and outstanding service in preventing a disturbed and violent man from committing suicide.



On 18th February 2008, police received a call expressing concern that a man was standing by Huntsham Bridge on the River Wye (near Symonds Yat) with weights tied around his legs. Intelligence suggested the man might have serious domestic, emotional and mental health issues. Despite this, Sgt Warner attended, commencing a search alone and on foot. He located the man who ran off along the bank carrying the weights as he ran. He appeared intent on jumping into the river. Sgt Warner rugby tackled the man but struggled to restrain him due to the man's size and strength. With the fortunate assistance of two passers-by, they were able to eventually apply an Emergency Restraint belt carried in the police car, despite the man struggling violently.



The two passers-by received High Sheriff's Awards for their part in the incident.

Mr Stephen Davies (Crown Prosecution Service)

was given a High Sheriff's Award in recognition of his great and valuable services to the community.



Stephen Davies is a Senior Crown Prosecutor with the CPS based at Droitwich, with responsibility for cases from Herefordshire, advising and prosecuting on many of the more serious crime investigations.. Over the past four years, the service he has provided to the police in Herefordshire has been exceptional. He makes himself available for advice and support around the clock, dealing with such complex issues as further detention, special measures, extradition and evidential development.



His enthusiasm, good advice and early interventions in cases have resulted in best use of resources, presentation of first class evidence and speedy and effective justice. He recently worked on a serious investigation until 10pm on Christmas Eve and all day on Boxing Day in order to resolve issues such as anonymity of witnesses and conspiracy, clearly going beyond what could reasonably be expected of a CPS lawyer. He will take calls from officers at any time and his impact on the quality of investigations in Herefordshire in considerable.



Steve's award was presented to him by the High Sheriff for Herefordshire and Worcestershire, Lt. Col. Michael Leigh.