Dedicated police volunteers celebrated at the Citizens in Policing Awards 2023

Dedicated and selfless police volunteers have been recognised for their outstanding contributions to the community at the annual Citizens in Policing Awards 2023.  

The ceremony, which was held on Wednesday night at Stockton Sixth Form College, recognises the fantastic work of Cleveland Police’s Special Constabulary and Police Service Volunteers as National Volunteers' week draws to a close. 

In total, six awards were handed out including Special Constable of the Year Award, Special Constabulary Student of the Year, and Special Constabulary Team of the Year.

The Good Work Commendation award recognised work around engagement with schools and also highlighted the fantastic work of our Specials who responded to a medical incident in Hartlepool.

A total of 23 officers were in attendance with their family and friends and each officer received a certificate thanking them for their contributions.

Special guest speakers on the night included Assistant Chief Constable, David Felton, Asma Shaffi, principal of Stockton Sixth Form College, and Police and Crime Commissioner Steve Turner.

Assistant Chief Constable, David Felton, has praised all volunteers for their commitment to serving the public.

He said: “I would like to congratulate all our winners and nominees – as well as extending a massive thanks to all our volunteers who go above and beyond for the community.

“Our dedicated volunteers are passionate about making a difference in Cleveland and give up their personal time to do so.

“I’m so pleased we were able to celebrate their achievements with family and friends. We truly appreciate their selfless work and we’re proud to have them as part of Cleveland Police.”

Citizens in Policing Co-ordinator James Ruddock said: “This was the second time we have held an award ceremony specifically to recognise the amazing work and commitment of our Special Constables.

“It was great to get everyone together to celebrate some of the many achievements of this team. It’s particularly great to have the family and friends in attendance too to share in the celebrations.”

Police and Crime Commissioner Steve Turner said: “Special constables are amazing people who use their spare time to jump into a police uniform and make Cleveland’s streets safer.

“They sacrifice time with friends and family to play their part and on behalf of Cleveland’s residents, I say a huge thank you and well done for their efforts in the last 12 months.”

Here is the full list of nominees and winners:

The Special Constable of the Year Award:

Nominations: Danielle Fawcett, Phil Brette

Winner: Phil Brette

The Special Constabulary Student of the Year:

Nominations: Marc Stephenson, Thomas Hawkins and Shane Lynn

Winner: Shane Lynn

The Special Constabulary Supporter of the Year:

Nominations: Gill Parkes, Alison Blake, Martin Hopps, Chris Burley

Winner: Chris Burley

The Special Constabulary Team of the Year:

Winner – Custody Van Team

The Special Constabulary Supervisor of the Year:

Nominations: Kate Dack, Dan Baker, James Ruddock, Hannah Smith, Rob Lynas, Phil Brette

Winner: Phil Brette

The Special Constabulary Champion of the Year

Good Work Commendation Awards:

Phil Brette – For engagement with schools

Liam Burmiston, James Ruddock, Alexa McDonald – For a medical response job in Hartlepool