Town police volunteer honoured

A POLICE volunteer from Hinckley has been honoured for his unwavering commitment to improving his community.

Special constable John Howells picked up the Leicestershire Police Federation Special Recognition Award for his selfless dedication to the force.

John balances volunteering with his day job as a paramedic.

He said: “I am completely surprised to have won, I didn’t expect it at all and I’m extremely happy.”

He was given the accolade at the Volunteers in Policing Awards held in the King Power Stadium last week.

Some 600 volunteers and guests attended the event to see 22 awards being given out and scores of people applauded for their commitment.

Superintendent Martyn Ball, strategic lead for volunteers, said: “It was an incredible night, volunteers are vital in policing and it was an absolute honour to celebrate their efforts with them. Personally, I am in awe of our volunteers and their dedication to the force is very humbling.”

Among those who attended the evening were Chief Constable Simon Cole, Assistant Chief Constable Phil Kay and Police and Crime Commissioner Lord Willy Bach.

Lord Willy Bach said: “As the new PCC I felt honoured to be present at the award ceremony.

“Volunteers whether specials, volunteers or cadets, do a fantastic job to keep the crucial connection between the police and the public and I am proud of the outstanding service they provide for all of us who live in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland.”

To find out more about Leicestershire Police’s volunteers visit leics.police.uk/join-us