The Isle of Wight Area Commander’s Awards were hosted by Superintendent Rob Mitchell at Newport Congregational Church on Thursday 18 April.
He welcomed several special guests to the event, including Deputy Chief Constable Lucy Hutson, Her Majesty’s Lord Lieutenant Susan Sheldon and High Sheriff of the Isle of Wight Graham Biss.
Attendees heard about the courage and dedication of not only the officers and staff from Hampshire and Isle of Wight Police working on the island, but also the selfless members of the public who came to the aid of others by when needed, and partner agencies who have made a real difference to the lives of local people.
Members of the police service were also recognized for their tenacious attitude towards investigating crimes committed on the island and assisting victims of serious and violent crimes.
A group of our Isle of Wight Police cadets were also attested at the event.
Temporary Chief Inspector Andy McDonald with ACC Lucy Hutson and Her Majesty’s Lord Lieutenant Susan Sheldon. (Image: Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary.)
Temporary Chief Inspector Andy McDonald, who joined the force in 2002 and was posted to Portsmouth as deputy district commander in June last year, received an award for his years of service.
Among those whose efforts were recognized was PC Holly Smith from the Newport District Policing Team.
She was awarded the Area Commander certificate for providing emergency first aid to the victim of a serious assault in Binstead in June 2022.
Holly rushed to the scene and provided life-saving first aid to a woman who had suffered multiple stab wounds to her face, head and neck.
Speaking at the ceremony, Isle of Wight District Commander, Superintendent Rob Mitchell, said: “Tonight is about recognizing the truly exceptional work that our officers and staff do day in and day out. day.
“A lot of this work goes unnoticed, and when it is noticed, they say: I was just doing my job.
“It’s so much more than that, and that needs to be recognized when people go above and beyond.” »
