Pride in Policing Awards 2018: Heroes in uniform honoured at awards ceremomy

Bobbies who brought down a slave master and a PCSO who helped snare a rapist have been recognised at a glittering police awards ceremony.

Northumbria Police’s officers were honoured at the force’s Pride in Policing Awards on Tuesday night.

The Chronicle sponsored the top gong, the Outstanding Contribution Award, which was awarded to veteran bobby PC James Desmond.

The long-serving officer was nominated for his efforts to “humanise” policing for mental health staff and patients in his role as Hospital Liaison Officer ar Newcastle’s St Nicholas’ Hospital.

PC Desmond, who is due to retire next month, also picked up another gong at the awards - having won 40% of the public’s vote in the Outstanding Contribution category.

Chief Constable Winton Keenen said: “Occasions such as this are truly humbling – I’m honoured to be able to showcase the outstanding work carried out by our officers, staff and volunteers.