Volunteers, police and members of the community were honoured at the inaugural Safer North Hampshire Community Safety Awards recently. Attendees gathered at the ceremony in Aldershot from across Basingstoke and Deane, Hart and Rushmoor to receive commendations for bravery, professionalism and volunteer work.

Amongst those honoured was a serving police officer from the Basingstoke and Deane area for saving the life of a woman who had fallen into a bog and was close to death, and another officer whose quick thinking prevented a woman from jumping from a tall building.

Local volunteers honoured included Nigel Pool for his commitment to the Fleet Angels street pastor programme, helping to ensure individuals and groups enjoy a safe night out in Fleet Town Centre. Other volunteers to receive awards included David Wenlock for his commitment and leadership with Farnborough Speedwatch, and John Koenigsberger for his achievements in reducing crime and the fear of crime as Chairperson of Rushmoor Neighbourhood Watch Association.

Police, RAF officers and cadets and members of the public were also honoured for their involvement in a fatal road traffic collision during the Christmas Extravaganza in Odiham in December.

Safer North Hampshire Antisocial Behaviour Officers Rebecca Floyd, from the Basingstoke and Deane area, and Moray Henderson, from Rushmoor, also received awards for their outstanding professionalism and conduct.

Police & Crime Commissioner for Hampshire, Simon Hayes said: “Attending this awards ceremony highlighted to me the commitment and dedication individuals play in helping keep people and places safe across Hampshire, and particularly in the north of the county. I commend all those who received awards and would also like to pay tribute to the Safer North Hampshire * Community Safety team for initiating this excellent awards programme.”