Two Special Constables have been presented with HM Lord Lieutenant’s awards for their dedication and commitment to Gloucestershire.
The awards are presented to members of volunteer organisations, such as the Special Constabulary and Cadets and Reserve Forces, who have made a significant contribution to their community and organisation.
David Pedrick-Friend and Sam Riglesford, who are volunteer officers within the Stonehouse and Dursley Safer Community Teams respectively, were presented with their certificates by HM Lord Lieutenant for Gloucestershire, Sir Henry Elwes, in a ceremony at Colesbourne House in Cheltenham on Sunday October 10.
When Sam, 22, is not carrying out his full time job as a Network Security Engineer he is offering a familiar and reassuring presence within the community. He’s shown a personal commitment and contribution to detecting crime and has organised operations to target offences such as anti social behaviour and criminal damage which have made a practical difference to policing in the area. Sam also undertakes the mentoring of new recruits and a citation read out at the ceremony about his work stated that; “Sam’s support, encouragement and enthusiasm with his colleagues is clearly reflected in increased patrol hours with other Special Constables.”Sam said: “I joined the Special Constabulary so that I could help people within the community and actively do something about the local policing issues that affected me. It is wonderful to be told that the work we do is making a real difference, and that my involvement is giving the best start to other Special Constable’s careers. I hope that this will encourage others in the community to come forward too.”
Inspector for the Dursley Safer Community Team, Tony Jones, said: “Not only is Sam keen, enthusiastic and committed but he’s also a fantastic advocate for the Special Constabulary and his passion for the job is infectious. His personal commitment to the community has contributed directly to the detection of crime and he is well deserving of this award.”
Following his retirement from the Army and working in social care, David, 43, wanted to give something back to the community and so alongside his job as a personal trainer he gives his time to the local policing team. He is known amongst his colleagues as an integral part of the team and willingly gives up his own time to support everyday local policing activities, special operations and also police public events, such as the Frampton Country Fair, Gatcombe Horse Trails and Forest Green Rovers football matches, in order to ensure they remain safe for all those involved.
After receiving his award David said: “It is very nice to be recognised by the community that we serve and are a part of. I would also hope that this would encourage others to support their local area and police service.”
Sergeant for the Stonehouse Safer Community Team, Kirk Harrison, said: “David is a credit not only to our local policing team but to the Constabulary as a whole. He is a key contributor to the team’s continuing high performance, results and achievements and it’s an honour to work with him. I’d like to take this opportunity to publically congratulate both David and Sam on their awards.”
