Derbyshire Cops Nominated for Top Bravery Award After Football Riot Showdown
A fearless team of Derbyshire Police officers has been nominated for the prestigious Police Bravery Awards 2024. They showed outstanding courage and professionalism during a violent clash with hundreds of hostile football fans armed with weapons.
Heroes of Aston Villa v Legia Warsaw Riot
Inspector Nick Booth, PC Matthew Copestake, PC Rebecca Callan, PC Adam Podam, PC Tammy Careless, PC Christopher Harrold, PC Ryan McGrath, and an unnamed colleague earned the nomination for their courage at the heated Aston Villa vs Legia Warsaw match on November 30, 2023.
Sent to assist West Midlands Police through mutual aid, Derbyshire officers faced off against around 200 Legia Warsaw supporters who launched a brutal assault. The mob attacked with drainpipes, branches, glass bottles, marine flares, cones, and even wheelie bins.
Calm Under Fire Prevents Chaos
- The officers stayed cool-headed amid the chaos.
- They stopped the rioters from breaking police lines.
- Protection of 27,000 Aston Villa fans was secured.
- Public safety was maintained, preventing serious injuries or damage.
PC Matthew Copestake was hurt in the melee, sustaining a hand injury that needed hospital treatment. Fortunately, he has now recovered.
Top Brass Praise Derbyshire’s Finest
Tony Wetton, Chair of the Derbyshire Police Federation, hailed the team’s bravery. “Their role was vital in stopping serious harm to the public,” he said.
Derbyshire Police Chief Superintendent Steve Wilson highlighted the unprecedented violence faced by officers and praised their resilience.
Meanwhile, West Midlands Police Chief Inspector Tim Robinson commended the squad’s “exceptional response” during the disorder.
Setting the Gold Standard in Policing
The Police Bravery Awards 2024 nomination recognises these officers’ extraordinary dedication and heroism. Their actions set a benchmark for policing not just in Derbyshire, but nationwide.
