Heroes of West Kent Police Honoured for Life-Saving Acts
Police officers in West Kent have been handed top awards for their heroic efforts in saving lives and cracking tough cases. Among the stars were Sergeant Paul Scott, PC Kyle Andrews, and PC Lauren Snoek, who used Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) to find a missing man in Maidstone on 14 June 2023. They then performed vital first aid, resuscitating him until paramedics arrived. Thanks to their quick actions, the man survived and is now recovering in hospital.
The trio received the prestigious Divisional Commander’s Award from West Kent Divisional Commander Chief Superintendent Neil Loudon at the Kent Police College on 13 November 2023. The ceremony honoured 60 officers, staff, and volunteers, with Kent High Sheriff Nadra Ahmed CBE also in attendance.
Bravery and Dedication Across the Board
- Detective Constable Josh Gearing: Dug deep into the career of convicted paedophile Russell Tillson, aged 73, who was jailed for over five years for historic sex offences against pupils in Tonbridge. DC Gearing’s sensitive handling helped uncover two more victims and bring justice.
- PC Nick Hubbard: Led crackdowns on rampant shoplifting in Sevenoaks, securing Community Behaviour Orders to curb repeat offenders. He also smashed a theft spree from motor vehicles, putting several crooks behind bars.
- PC Lewis Mitchell: Off duty at London’s South Kensington station on 1 April, PC Mitchell saved a life by performing CPR on a person who suffered cardiac arrest. Without him, it could have been fatal.
- PC Lee Bunclark and Team: On 1 July, they dealt with a desperate young woman threatening to jump from a bridge in Otford. PC Bunclark secured road closures while colleagues PC Alex Dawood, PC Sophie Taylor, and PC Grace Hedges helped guide her to safety and support.
- PC Ben Startin: Off duty in Staplehurst on 23 March 2022, PC Startin confronted a violent man armed with a hammer chasing a victim. Identifying himself as a cop, he calmed the situation and secured safety for two injured people.
Chief Superintendent Praises Courage Under Fire
“Every day, Kent Police officers, staff, and volunteers face unpredictable and dangerous situations, on and off duty,” said Chief Superintendent Neil Loudon. “Tonight’s awards shine a light on their bravery, professionalism, and compassion. They remain calm under immense pressure, always putting the public first. Their outstanding contributions truly deserve recognition.”
