Kent Police Stars Bag Top Honours from the Queen
Deputy Chief Constable Tony Blaker and Superintendent Jason Wenlock have snagged prestigious national awards for their outstanding service to Kent’s communities. DCC Blaker earned the Queen’s Police Medal for his exemplary policing, while Supt Wenlock picked up the British Empire Medal for transforming the lives of vulnerable youngsters through Kent’s trailblazing cadet scheme.
Blaker: A Career Dedicated to Safety and Teamwork
Chief Constable Alan Pughsley hailed the duo’s achievements as “a testament to their hard work and dedication.” Blaker joined Kent Police as Deputy Chief Constable in 2018 after 26 years with Sussex Police. He’s led critical operations covering firearms, public order, roads policing, and counter-terrorism. Highlights include commanding security at Brighton Pride and the Lewes Bonfire celebrations, plus leading the police response to the tragic 2015 Shoreham air crash.
“Policing is all about teamwork. There is an incredibly professional and hard working team at Kent Police that it has been my privilege to work alongside,” Blaker said. “I’m extremely proud to have been nominated for and receive this award.”
Wenlock’s Cadet Scheme Changing Young Lives
Supt Wenlock founded the Kent Police cadet programme, helping over 600 young people since 2015 to kickstart careers in policing and community service. He also spearheads the force’s volunteer programme and personally mentors cadets in Dover during his free time.
“Our police cadets have grown into truly impressive young people with a bright future,” Wenlock said. “Many have already joined the force, with another 300 waiting to start.”
Wenlock has also developed the UK’s only training scheme equipping Special Constables to match full-time officers in skills and powers. Kent’s 300 Special Constables contribute over 100,000 voluntary policing hours annually, a large force honoured with the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service in 2014.
From Gulf War to Gold Medal
After a decade in the British Army serving from the Gulf to Kosovo, Wenlock joined Kent Police in 1997. He’s worked across Medway, Dover, Canterbury, and Ashford.
“I’m stunned and delighted by this honour,” Wenlock said. “I love my job, work with the best leaders, and I’m proud of our cadets. This award is for them as much as me.”
Gavin McKinnon CF, Chief Officer of Kent’s Special Constabulary, praised Wenlock’s “24/7 commitment, passion and enthusiasm” for nurturing young people, many vulnerable, giving them a real chance in life. “Her Majesty’s award is fitting recognition of his lifetime service in both military and police,” McKinnon said.
Kent Police’s double win confirms its place as one of the country’s finest forces, led by officers driving innovation and community spirit to new heights.
