Officers, staff, volunteers and members of the public celebrated at Force awards
A devoted group of Dorset Police officers and staff, who were determined to secure justice following the attempted murder of a nine-year-old Christchurch girl were amongst some of the award winners at the latest Dorset Police Awards Ceremony.
The officers and staff, which consisted of response officers, detectives, the 999 call handler and a media and communications officer were handed a Chief Constable’s Commendation award for their teamwork, which resulted in the charge and conviction of the offender for attempted to murder and support offered to the girl and her family throughout. The offender was subsequently sentenced to 30 years in prison.
The ceremony, which took place on Thursday 9 October 2025, saw 17 Chief Constable Commendations awarded for exceptional work and dedication, alongside Royal Humane Society awards handed to officers and staff for their exceptional courage and bravery in the face of unique and unprecedented circumstances.
Two police constables alongside a member of the public, were awarded the prestigious Royal Humane Society Resuscitation Certificate. The award is given to those who successfully resuscitate a person despite not being trained to do so. The officers, alongside a member of the public, successfully provided lifesaving first aid to a man who was initially found unresponsive and not breathing.
The Long Service and Good Conduct medal was awarded to 22 officers, who have successfully completed 20 years’ service and are of very good character and conduct. Detective Constable Elizabeth Horrex was handed her Long Service and Good Conduct medal after working for Dorset Police for 24 years in a range of departments, including on response, the Police Support Unit and now as a respected member of the Major Crime Investigation Team.
Chief Constable Amanda Pearson said: “Across Dorset, daily, our officers, staff and volunteers come to work to provide fair and effective policing for all of our communities. They do not expect recognition or reward for doing so and consider it as just part of the job. But policing is challenging, and it is important for us as colleagues, family, friends and supporters of Dorset Police to pause, reflect and celebrate the service provided to the people of Dorset in our shared endeavours to be tough on crime, keep people safe and put victims first.
“I am incredibly proud of our officers, staff and volunteers who go above and beyond every day to keep people safe. I want to thank them all for their dedication to the communities of Dorset and their families and friends who support them.”
Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner, David Sidwick said: “It is a privilege to recognise the remarkable dedication, professionalism, and courage demonstrated by our officers, staff, and volunteers. The Dorset Police Force Awards highlight the outstanding contributions made by those who go above and beyond to protect our communities and uphold public safety. I would like to thank all of this year’s award recipients for their exceptional service and continued commitment to the people of Dorset.”
If you would like to join our brave and committed award winners in helping to make a real difference to our communities, we are recruiting now for a range of roles, including police officers and detectives. You can find out more here: Careers with Dorset Police | Dorset Police
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