Police and public recognised at Newport awards ceremony

THE efforts of Isle of Wight police, partners and members of the public have been recognised at an awards ceremony in Newport.

The Isle of Wight Area Commander’s Awards were hosted by superintendent Rob Mitchell at Newport Congregational Church on Thursday, April 18.

He welcomed several special guests at the event, including assistant chief constable Lucy Hutson, His Majesty’s Lord Lieutenant Susan Sheldon, and Isle of Wight High Sheriff Graham Biss.

Attendees heard of the bravery and dedication of not only police officers and staff from Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary working on the Island, but of selfless members of the public who came to the aid of others in their time of need, and partner agencies who have made a real difference to the lives of local people.

Members of the police service were also recognised for their tenacious attitude towards investigating offences on the Island, and assisting victims of serious and violent crime.

A group of our Isle of Wight Police Cadets were also attested at the event.

Temp Chief Inspector Andy McDonald with ACC Lucy Hutson and His Majesty’s Lord Lieutenant Susan Sheldon. (Image: Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary.)

Temporary chief inspector Andy McDonald, who joined the constabulary in 2002 and was posted to Portsmouth as deputy district commander in June last year, was presented with a long service award.

Among those whose efforts were recognised was PC Holly Smith from the Newport District Policing Team.

She was awarded the area commander’s certificate for providing emergency first aid to the victim of a serious assault in Binstead in June 2022.

Holly rushed to the scene and provided lifesaving first aid to a woman who had suffered a number of stab wounds to her face, head and neck.

Speaking at the ceremony, Isle of Wight district commander, superintendent Rob Mitchell, said: “Tonight is about recognising the truly exceptional work our officers and staff do day in and day out.

“Much of this work goes unnoticed, and when it is noticed they will say: I was just doing my job.

“It is more than that, and it should be recognised when people go above and beyond.”