Awards have been given out to police officers, police staff and members of the public for going above and beyond to protect Isle of Wight communities at a ceremony in Newport.
The Isle of Wight Area Commander’s Awards were hosted by Superintendent Rob Mitchell at the Newport Congregational Church on the evening of Thursday 18th April 2024.
Supt Mitchell welcomed a number of special guests at the event, including Assistant Chief Constable Lucy Hutson, His Majesty’s Lord Lieutenant Susan Sheldon, and Isle of Wight High Sheriff Graham Biss.
Bravery and dedication
Attendees heard of the bravery and dedication of not only police officers and staff from Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary working on the Island, but of selfless members of the public who came to the aid of others in their time of need, and partner agencies who have made a real difference to the lives of local people.
Members of the police service were also recognised for their tenacious attitude towards investigating offences on the Island, and assisting victims of serious and violent crime.
A group of our Isle of Wight Police Cadets were also attested at the event.
The Volunteer Police Cadets scheme provides a safe environment where young people aged 13-17 can learn as individuals, develop positive relationships with the police and actively support the community. For more details on the Cadets, visit the website.
Long Service Award
Temporary Chief Inspector Andy McDonald was presented with his Long Service Award at the ceremony. Andy joined the Constabulary in 2002 having served in the RAF, and policed the Island up until June 2023 when he was posted to Portsmouth as Deputy District Commander.
Keep an eye on the Isle of Wight Police Facebook page where we will be highlighting a small selection of case studies from the ceremony throughout this week, starting today by recognising the efforts of PC Holly Smith from the Newport District Policing Team (DPT).
Emergency first aid to victim of serious assault
PC Holly Smith was awarded the Area Commander’s Certificate for providing emergency first aid to the victim of a serious assault which occurred at an address in Binstead in June 2022.
Holly rushed to the scene, and without hesitation provided life-saving first aid to the woman who had suffered a number of stab wounds to her face, head and neck.
In doing so, she displayed extraordinary courage and compassion in an unwavering commitment to saving life.
As the ambulance arrived, Holly continued to support the victim, accompanying her to hospital and standing by her side throughout the ordeal. Her actions exemplify the very essence of professionalism.
Mitchell: Recognising truly exceptional work
Speaking at the ceremony, Isle of Wight District Commander, Superintendent Rob Mitchell, said,
“Tonight is about recognising the truly exceptional work our officers and staff do day in and day out. Much of this work goes unnoticed, and when it is noticed they will say ‘I was just doing my job’.
“It is more than that, and it should be recognised when people go above and beyond. There are so many examples of shining public service on the Isle of Wight.
“I wish I had come to the Island earlier in my career – there is a real sense of civic pride here, and you find that in our police teams.
“Tonight is about others too, it’s not just about policing. We will see the quality of the Island’s young people – we have our volunteer cadets here, a number of whom will be attested. We will also be celebrating some members of the public who have supported policing through their actions.”
News shared by Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary, in their own words. Ed
