Two Aylesbury security guards were honoured recently as ‘unsung heroes’.
They were presented with High Sheriff Awards by the High Sheriff of Buckinghamshire at RAF Halton on January 18. Clint Woolcock, a guard at Morrisons and Mary Walsh, a guard at Marks & Spencer, were nominated by Sgt Dave Grainger, who leads the town centre neighbourhood policing team.
He wrote: “Mary has always shown above normal dedication to her job over the years she has been there. She frequently exceeded her brief in order to combat theft, in particular from regular drug addicts and bulk shoplifters. She has alerted other stores and has worked hard to provide first class evidence for the police.
“Mary has committed herself to protect the retail outlets of Aylesbury in the fight against crime. She has reported matters and gathered powerful evidence that have led to multiple arrests and subsequent prosecution. Her work ensures that Aylesbury has fewer criminals and a safer town centre.”
He added: “Mary is a hardworking and humble person who would by no means expect such award, but would be very pleased to receive one all the same.”
For Clint Woolcock he wrote: “Over the last seven years or so Clint has reported numerous offences, detained numerous people, and supplied vast amounts of intelligence to the police. The work he does is over and above that of a normal security guard. His professionalism, efficiency and commitment to his job and to the community are second to none.
“He is well known for the thorough job he does. Over the years Clint’s timely intervention has prevented offences being committed. He has also helped in the recovery of many items of stolen property. He has also reported assaults, drug taking, and bullying, and has assisted the police greatly in the fight against crime.”
He went on: “Clint’s presence gives the public the feeling that Morrisons is efficiently patrolled, and the reassurance that everyone is safe to go about their shopping.
“Clint is very modest and would not seek an award, but it will mean a lot to him to be recognised for the excellent work he does both for the police and for his community.”
After giving the awards the High Sheriff, Mr Alexander Boswell said: "It’s one of the great bonuses of being a High Sheriff that one encounters the most wonderful people whose work may not be high profile or even exciting, but who bring to their jobs the most incredible commitment and enthusiasm. I have to say that meeting these people has been an enlightening and spiritually uplifting experience."
