Celebrations begin with winner of our birthday card competition

Today we mark Cleveland Police turning 50 by announcing the talented winner of our birthday card competition.

Cleveland Constabulary, which was renamed Cleveland Police in 1996 when the four unitary authorities were introduced, was first established in April 1974.

And to help the force mark turning 50, children at primary schools with a ‘Mini Police’ initiative were invited to be part of the celebrations by designing a birthday card.

Judging between a number of fantastic designs, Chief Constable Mark Webster selected Tami Awojide as the overall winner.

The 11-year-old, from Grangetown Primary School, was chosen out of 144 birthday cards from 12 primary schools across Stockton, Hartlepool, Redcar and Cleveland and Middlesbrough.

Tami’s birthday card will be displayed at the force’s headquarters in Hemlington and put on our social media channels alongside all the other entries.

Officers will also take Tami for a ride in a police car, and alongside his school pupils, he will receive a visit from our furry friends in the dog unit.

Chief Constable Mark Webster said: “I would like to congratulate Tami for designing a fantastic birthday card that showcases his perception of policing.

“Choosing the winner was not an easy decision due to the quality of entries we received. The cracking effort to draw our police crest, using bright colours to make ‘50’ stand out and the important message ‘be kind’ made Tami a very worthy winner.

“While we reflect on our history, we must also recognise how children will grow up to perhaps one day be the future of policing, therefore it was important for them to be part of our celebrations.”

Mini Police’ has been running in Cleveland since 2018. It aims to build trust and confidence with young people and the wider community.

It is a fun and interactive opportunity for children aged 9 to 11 and is led by School Liaison Officer Geoff Illingworth. Children learn about policing issues, staying safe and take part in volunteering activities to support neighbourhood policing.

To find out more please contact [email protected]

Throughout the week, month and year ahead we will be celebrating Cleveland Police turning 50 in variety of ways. Keep an eye on our Facebook, X, Instagram and website to find out more.