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Thames Valley Police and Hampshire Constabulary are delighted to confirm that ACC David Hardcastle has been recognised by Her Majesty The Queen for his service to the Queen and the Royal Household. The honour is granted in recognition of the work that he undertook in 2018 when he was Gold Commander of the policing operations for the wedding of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex in May and the wedding of Princess Eugenie and Mr Jack Brooksbank in October. ACC Hardcastle is responsible for the Joint Operations Unit which serves both Thames Valley Police and Hampshire Constabulary. The Unit includes roads policing, firearms, public order, specialist search, mounted and marine units. His role takes him to the forefront of policing major events, tacking counter terrorism activity and managing highly demanding civil contingency events. ACC Hardcastle was also in command for the visit of the President of the United States to Thames Valley in 2018 and has also just commanded the extensive policing operation in Portsmouth for the D-Day 75 Commemoration. Speaking about receiving his honour, David said: “I am absolutely thrilled that policing has been recognised and I am tremendously humbled to receive such a personal award from Her Majesty. I am proud to be a police officer and be able to make a difference every day to the communities that we serve, and I am privileged to lead a team of fantastic officers and staff. There can’t be many careers that provide such a variety of opportunities and experiences and it has been an honour to have been involved in delivering the policing element in such iconic events. I could not have done any of it without the involvement of so many great people, and I thank them for the support they have provided.” John Campbell, Chief Constable of Thames Valley Police said: “I welcome the recognition of ACC Hardcastle and offer congratulations on behalf of all his Thames Valley Police colleagues and our partners. The safe and successful delivery of large scale events requires a huge amount of planning and ACC Hardcastle has commanded the policing operations for multiple events which carefully balanced the need for security and public safety with enabling everyone to share in the joy and excitement of these happy occasion.” Olivia Pinkney, Chief Constable of Hampshire Constabulary, said: “I am delighted to see ACC Hardcastle receive such a prestigious honour for his service to Her Majesty The Queen. His passion for policing and public service always shines through and the success of the events that he has commanded are a testament to his dedication and commitment over so many years. Well done from the whole force!”