Police officers and community heroes recognised at The Wakefield District Awards
Officers, staff and members of the public who have gone above and beyond to keep communities safe across the district of Wakefield have been honoured.
The Wakefield District Awards were recently held at Sandal Rugby Club and recognised exemplary police officers, staff members, special constables and volunteers alongside partner agencies and members of the public who provide invaluable support to the police.
Chief Superintendent Stuart Bainbridge, the Wakefield District Commander, was joined by members of the district’s Senior Leadership Team, West Yorkshire Police Assistant Chief Constable Damian Miller and local dignitaries including Wakefield MP Simon Lightwood and Wakefield Council chief executive Tony Reeves.
Award winners included DC Alison Hibbert, who was recognised for her “pivotal role” in the case of R v Woolley – which resulted in a sentence of 28 years for serious historical sexual offending against three vulnerable children across three forces.
PC Darren Hutchinson and PC Simon Hewitt, were also recognised for their continued “hard work and dedication” in protecting vulnerable people going missing – ultimately decreasing the number in Wakefield by 27 per cent.
The event also celebrated members of the public with Zbigniew Kedzua, Ohiwere Agberbaakj, Tyler Halkyard, Phil Priestley, Michael Runton and Michael Tagobo all highlighted for their “exceptional bravery and quick thinking”.
On July 2, the group intervened to save the life of a vulnerable male on a motorway bridge.
Their actions, which were said to be taken at great personal risk, “directly prevented a tragic outcome and demonstrated the highest standards of public spirit and humanity.”
Chief Superintendent Stuart Bainbridge, Wakefield District Commander, said: “The Wakefield District Awards gives us a chance to pause and celebrate the outstanding commitment, creativity and compassion shown by police officers, staff and police volunteers working in teams across our communities.
“Policing is a unique and often demanding job, so I hope everyone who attended left feeling proud of their own achievements and inspired by the incredible stories shared.
“These awards also recognise members of the public and partner organisations whose support is vital in making our communities safer and stronger.
“Policing is never done alone, and their contribution is invaluable.”