Wiltshire Police Honours Heroes at Annual Awards Night
Wiltshire Police celebrated outstanding bravery, dedication, and long service at their annual Force Awards on November 7, held at The Corn Exchange, Devizes. Chief Constable Catherine Roper led the gala, joined by VIPs including The Lord-Lieutenant Sarah Troughton and Police and Crime Commissioner Philip Wilkinson.
Bristling with Bravery and Commitment
Chief Constable Roper praised the award winners, saying: “Policing is a privilege demanding the highest standards of service, integrity, and compassion. Our communities deserve nothing less.” The night recognised 19 Long Service Awards, alongside commendations for members of the public and officers excelling in teamwork and voluntary roles.
Shining Stars of Wiltshire Police
- PC Michelle Barratt: 21 years policing across Greater Manchester and Wiltshire. Notably saved a deaf woman from forced marriage using lip-reading skills, and famously dubbed a colleague’s “knight in shining hi-vis” after assisting with a tough arrest encounter.
- Detective Sergeant Claire Watts: Key player in high-profile cases including child abuse in boarding schools, breaking new ground in Wiltshire’s paedophile hunter operations, all while balancing family life.
- PC Paul Bezzant: Seven years in response before moving to burglary and community policing roles. Praises a retired inspector for shaping his community-focused approach.
- Detective Superintendent Conway Duncan: Started in 2004, climbing ranks through CID, Professional Standards, and leadership roles. Acted as Inspector for HMICFRS, showcasing dedication and adaptability.
- PC Emily Thomas: A rural policing specialist who began her career in Trowbridge. Known for tackling wildlife crime, including an arrest for stealing snowdrops on Salisbury Plain.
- Detective Constable David Topp: Veteran investigator in major crimes, including murder and manslaughter cases. Played a key role in extraditing a violent offender from the US.
- Special Constable Shane Wheeler: Overcame serious injury early in his service to become integral to the Roads Policing Unit. Credits his wife’s support for his sustained dedication.
Public Heroism Spotlight
- Louise Terry: Awarded for heroic efforts performing CPR on a cyclist hit by a van on the A4. Despite the tragic outcome, her quick thinking gave the victim a fighting chance.
- Ashton McCabe: Recognised for swift first aid and helping restrain a stabbing suspect in Devizes, directing bystanders and supporting officers during a tense attack.
Commendations and Team Triumphs
PC Nicola Crabbe received a double commendation for jumping into freezing canal waters to rescue a drowning woman and for bravely tackling a stabbing suspect in Devizes, saving a life despite physical assault.
The Outstanding Teamwork Award went to Operation Glendale’s murder investigation team, who secured life sentences in a brutal case, and to officers who saved a man from a suicidal jump in Trowbridge, showcasing fearless teamwork.
Volunteers Making a Difference
- Special Constable Damien Penman: Developed a cutting-edge mobile data system that has revolutionised missing person and suspect tracking. He generously shared his software free — boosting police efficiency across Wiltshire.
- Volunteer Peter Goodenough: Former head of security detail to Queen Elizabeth II, Peter lends his expert training skills to police staff and community safety initiatives, clocking over 100 volunteer hours last year.
Wiltshire Police’s awards night was a stirring tribute to the courage, innovation, and community spirit fueling the force. As Chief Constable Roper said, “These heroes set the benchmark for excellence.”
