Public say on police awards

The public are being asked for the first time to nominate police officers who they think deserve an award for their service to the community.

In a change to how candidates are usually chosen, Nottinghamshire Police is asking for nominations for Special Constable of the Year, Police Community Support Officer of the Year and the Christopher McDonald Community Officer of the Year.

Officers who have provided exceptional service or shown commitment to innovative projects can be nominated.

Previously only fellow officers could make nominations.

A judging panel including Assistant Chief Constable Susannah Fish, a representative from the Police Federation, and Chief Inspector Wes McDonald, head of communities and race relations, will pick the winners.

The winners will represent the force in the National Police Awards.

Pc Christopher McDonald was murdered in 1978 after attending a robbery at a Worksop jewellers. He was 19.

Last year’s winner of the Christopher McDonald award was Ollerton’s beat manager Pc Colin Oakley.

Pc Oakley said: “I viewed the nomination as a compliment, not just for me, but also for my safer neighbourhood team colleagues.”

Nominees will be judged on ability and experience in community policing, involvement in crime fighting and anti-social behaviour initiatives, relationship with the community, and evidence of problem-solving skills.

Nominations should say in no more than 200 words why the officer is being put forward. The closing date is April 10.

They should be sent to Melanie Winskill, awards administrator, Police Headquarters, Sherwood Lodge, Arnold.

Nominations can be sent via email to force.awards@nottinghamshire.pnn.police.uk