Preston and South Ribble police officers recognised in Commendation Ceremony

Award winners from the night who were commended for their heroic actions in rescuing a trapped driver from an overturned HGV

68 individuals have been recognised for their outstanding contribution to Lancashire Constabulary’s South Division at the Divisional Commanders Commendations Ceremony.

Police officers, police staff and detectives were among those honoured at the event, held on Monday 5 December at Lancashire Constabulary Headquarters in Hutton.

Award winners from across the division, which covers Preston, South Ribble, Chorley and West Lancashire were recognised for their bravery and outstanding efforts.

Chief Superintendent and Divisional Commander, Stasia Osiowy said: “Each day, every single member of South Lancashire Police plays a significant part in keeping our communities safe. However, on occasions when individuals make an outstanding contribution, I like to recognise those who are deserving, and it was my pleasure to thank those who go above and beyond in the line of duty.

“The Divisional Commander’s Commendations evening is a great opportunity for us to come together with families and friends to recognise some of the outstanding work that has taken place in South Lancashire.

“The recipients of these awards should be proud of their achievement and this year has seen some excellent examples of individuals and teams demonstrating bravery, dedication commitment.

“I am very proud of each and every one of them, they are an example to us all and a credit to the Constabulary, it is a privilege to work alongside them each day. Well done to all.”

Award winners from the ceremony included:

Officers and detectives were recognised for their excellent work on Op Zodiac. The team proactively investigated an organised crime group, or OCG, who were supplying Class-A drugs in and around Preston. As a result of this quality investigation, several warrants were conducted and fifteen were arrested and charged. The team acted with commitment and professionalism, and their determination to succeed resulted in the conviction and dismantling of a significant organised crime group.
A number of officers were commended for their heroic actions in rescuing a trapped driver from an overturned HGV. Officers came across a 44-tonne articulated lorry overturned with the driver trapped inside the cab, hot oil leaking onto the engine, and smoke had begun to rise. A baton was used to create a hole in the windscreen, an officer then pulled the glass away with his bare hands allowing the driver to crawl out to safety and by this time, a small fire had started. Thanks to the officers quick and selfless actions, the driver escaped uninjured.
Officers were awarded for their dedication and quick thinking. When an off duty officer was on her way home from work, she came across a male clearly experiencing a mental health crisis. She stopped her car to engage with the male who then made off. Having no equipment, radio or support, she proactively started an area search and located the male where she engaged with him while buying time for other officers to arrive. When an officer arrived, he assisted and took quick action. That day a life was saved due to the excellent police work, quick decision making and actions taken by both officers.