THOSE who have served Wiltshire with distinction were celebrated at an awards evening on Thursday.

Wiltshire Police hosted the Force Awards Ceremony, held at Cumberwell Golf Club in Bradford-On-Avon, which every year recognises the acts of courage, hard work and kindness carried out by police staff, officers and members of the public.

The event was attended by chief constable Mike Veale, Police and Crime Commissioner for Wiltshire and Swindon Angus Macpherson and other notable figures in Wiltshire Police.

Speaking about the evening, Mr Veale said: “Almost every day I hear about fantastic acts of courage, brilliant high quality work or sheer acts of kindness, and as a result I speak to many officers, police staff and the public just to say thank you.

“The evening was a fantastic opportunity for us to formally recognise and honour our colleagues for the outstanding service they provide as well as selfless acts of bravery in protecting the communities of Wiltshire.

“Last night we also met supportive and courageous members of the public who have gone above and beyond what could possibly be expected of them whether that be providing support to policing, or selfless acts of bravery where they have put themselves in extremely dangerous situations helping us fight crime and anti-social behaviour.

“It is humbling to hear about the selfless, public spirit and I pay tribute to you all.

“We are a service of people working for people and it is right, just occasionally, that we take a moment to recognise, thank and pay tribute for what you have done and will do tomorrow and the day after that, just as we have over the past 177 years, to protect our public and make a positive difference to people’s lives.”

Police and Crime Commissioner Angus Macpherson said: “The public are very quick to complain about policing but what we have heard tonight is the dedication of the vast numbers of staff within Wiltshire Police, officers and staff, who every day, serve the public.

“Tonight’s ceremony has been all about celebrating the successes and hearing all of the courageous and brave stories.”