London’s Finest Honoured in Queen’s Birthday Honours
Metropolitan Police heroes have been handed prestigious awards in the Queen’s Birthday Honours, recognising their dedication to keeping London safe. From frontline officers to specialist managers, their outstanding contributions have earned them the British Empire Medal (BEM), Queen’s Police Medal (QPM), and the Royal Victorian Order (MVO).
Heroes Behind the Badge
- Paula Cooper, PC since 2015, scored the British Empire Medal for championing over 3,700 police cadets across London, smashing diversity records with 43% from under-represented groups and nearly half female recruits.
- Susan Hill, Specialist Operations Training Unit Manager, awarded the British Empire Medal.
- Varsha Mistry, Manager of Forensic Practitioners, snagged the British Empire Medal for pioneering diversity and forensic expertise, including tackling serious crime and counter-terrorism.
- Tim Gray, former Detective Superintendent, received the Queen’s Police Medal for revolutionising covert operations and undercover training nationwide.
- Constable James McAllister picked up the Queen’s Police Medal for his public order policing mastery, including major events like the 2011 Royal Wedding and 2012 Olympics.
- Michael Wallace, south London youth officer and co-founder of KickOff@3, honoured with the Queen’s Police Medal for bridging communities through sport and culture.
- Vicky Washington, ex-Detective Superintendent and campaigner against violence towards women, earned the Queen’s Police Medal for 30 years of unwavering service.
- Detective Sergeant Marc O’Shea was appointed a Member of the Royal Victorian Order for his vital role in Royal Household protection at Windsor Castle.
Spotlight on the Awardees
Paula Cooper says, “I’m truly honoured to receive this award. Cadets is a fantastic programme that offers young people an insight into policing and valuable life experience.”
Varsha Mistry shared, “This recognition is an overwhelming surprise. Using Hindu values to serve the Met and bring communities together has been deeply rewarding.”
Tim Gray reflects, “I’m overjoyed and honoured. It’s been a rewarding career with incredible colleagues and teams.”
James McAllister remarked, “This honour highlights the critical behind-the-scenes work that keeps London safe during high-pressure events.”
Michael Wallace said, “Being recognised by Her Majesty alongside inspiring names fills me with great pride as a police officer and community volunteer.”
Vicky Washington added, “I’m humbled to receive the QPM during Her Majesty’s Platinum Jubilee year, and I think of all my colleagues doing tough work daily.”
DS Marc O’Shea stated, “It’s been a privilege working with the Royal Household. This recognition means the world to me.”
Met Police Boss Praises Award Winners
Sir Stephen House, Acting Commissioner, applauded the recipients: “I’m delighted Her Majesty has recognised so many Metropolitan officers and staff. Their dedicated service makes a positive difference in keeping London and its communities safe.”
These honours highlight a diverse and dynamic group, shining a light on the extraordinary work happening across the capital’s police force. From grassroots initiatives to national security operations, London’s finest continue to set the bar high.
