Heroic Acts and Long Service Honoured on Isle of Wight
Chief Constable Olivia Pinkney and Lord Lieutenant Major General Martin White have handed out awards recognising courage, dedication, and community spirit across the Isle of Wight police force and public.
Local Heroes Save the Day
Among the honoured was 25-year-old Pauline Cake and her bulldog Ernie, who played a crucial part in locating a distressed man hiding on Culver Down. When the man tried to flee towards a cliff edge, Pauline bravely intervened, persuading him to stay safe and engage with officers. Her quick thinking likely prevented serious harm or a dangerous search operation.
Another standout act came from 66-year-old Helen Woodford, who spotted an appeal on social media for a missing 82-year-old dementia sufferer. She took to the roads, found the vulnerable man in Bembridge, and kept him safe in her car until police arrived — a move that saved him from potential danger.
Officers Going the Extra Mile
- PC Justin Pringle has strengthened ties with Cowes schools and partner agencies. He runs beat surgeries and educational sessions on online safety praised by Cowes Enterprise College.
- Police Sergeant Kevin Butcher and Detention Officer Gary Thorne are transforming youth custody. Using their own time, they help young people and families understand custody processes, aiming to reduce reoffending. Their work sets a best-practice example for other Youth Offending Teams nationwide.
A Community Effort Worth Celebrating
Supt Sarah Jackson, who presented many of the awards, said: “The contributions made by members of the public have been just as important in keeping our community safe. The partnership work of my officers, including PC Pringle, PS Butcher, and DO Thorne, plays a vital role in positive outcomes for our community.”
She added, “Each award recipient should be proud. I thank them all for their valuable service to the Isle of Wight.”
The ceremony also recognised long-serving officers and Police Cadets for their commitment, celebrating a strong culture of service and community protection on the island.
