THE work and commitment of special constables, officers and police staff has been celebrated at the Dorset Police Awards Ceremony.

A total of 11 people from this part of Dorset were singled out for praise at the ceremony earlier this month.

The Police Long Service and Good Conduct Medal went to Sergeant Andrew Cutler, who has served in Boscombe, Wimborne, Christchurch and central Bournemouth over his 23-year service.

During that time he has received four commendations, including two for confronting armed offenders, one brandishing a knife and one an axe.

Constable Robert Freeman, who joined Dorset Police in July 1985, aged 20, and worked at Boscombe, Kinson and Bournemouth police stations before moving to road policing, was given the Police Long Service and Good Conduct Medal.

In 1992 he chased down and arrested a robber on foot following an armed robbery and was awarded a Chief Constable's Commendation.

The Divisional Special Constable of the Year Awards were presented to Shelley Otter, based at Poole, Kyle Hickman, based at Swanage and Winton-based Claire Dinsdale.

Special Constabulary Long Service Medals went to Poole-based Jamie McKay, who joined in 1997, aged just 19, Stuart Hann, who has 10 years' service in the Wareham division, Colin Marsh, who has served at Blandford since being sworn in a decade ago, and Simon Lathwell, stationed at Wareham since 1998.

The Special Constabulary Long Service Bar went to Acting Divisional Commandant Andrew Turtle, who joined the Special Constabulary in 1988.

Deputy Chief Constable of Dorset Police Chris Lee said: "We are all extremely proud of our colleagues within the special constabulary and on behalf of Dorset Police we wish to thank them for their professionalism, their commitment and their dedication to duty.

"Special constables are an integral part of Dorset Police and each of them is committed to making Dorset safer."

Also among the award winners was Wendy Ford, based at Winfrith HQ, who received a long service award after 20 years with Dorset Police, working

  • If you are interested in becoming a special constable with Dorset Police, or would like further information, then call the volunteers support team on 01305 223683 or visit dorset.police.uk.