Cleethorpes bobby hailed as 'fantastic' role model for police in Parliament

A top Cleethorpes bobby has been praised in Parliament as a "fantastic" role model for police after winning two awards.

PC Dave Cave received an award from The High Sheriff of Lincolnshire, Richard Lake OBE, in recognition of "great and valuable service to the community" after nearly 20 years in policing. He was also honoured at a ceremony in Grimsby Town Hall when he received a civic Good Neighbour Award last month.

Cleethorpes MP Martin Vickers spoke in the House of Commons in praise of the dedicated officer.

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He told MPs: "My local newspaper, the Grimsby Telegraph, carried a recent report praising the work of community police officer Dave Cave, highlighting the importance of community policing."

He said chief officers at Humberside Police and the Police and Crime Commissioner support community policing.

The MP asked: "Could we have a debate in government time to explore policing methods and the importance of community policing?"

Leader of The House, Penny Mordaunt, replied: "I am sure that everyone in the House would want to send their congratulations to PC Dave Cave for his near 20 years of service.

"I am sure that all colleagues would join me in doing that and would congratulate him on that well-deserved award. He exemplifies what it means to be a police officer and a fantastic community champion. I am sure that my honourable friend knows how to apply for a debate, but such an opportunity would also afford us the ability to shine a spotlight on the very good work done by our police forces. We do not note and praise them enough for it."

PC Cave can clock up 35,000 to 37,000 steps daily on his massive beat which stretches from Haverstoe, through Humberston and across the whole of New Waltham.

At the time of his award, PC Cave said his aim is to lead the team in keeping the Cleethorpes area safe for everyone and stop hooligans from ruining it for the thousands of families who travel to the resort at the start of the summer season.

"Cleethorpes is a very busy resort and I love it. We have got the best residents in North East Lincolnshire," PC Cave said. He added: "I am totally humbled and proud to have received this award and I would like to thank all those members who have nominated me. I don't do it for recognition but I do it to try and make a difference."

Dinsdale Shaw, chairman of New Waltham Parish Council, said: "He goes above and beyond his paid duties and he does a lot in his own time, including holidays.

"Dave is incredibly dedicated. Everyone over five years old around here know him as 'Dave'. I see him as an old-fashioned beat bobby with a modern twist."