Force award ceremony shines a spotlight on those making a difference across Dorset
Dorset Police has honoured officers, staff, volunteers, members of the public and a top police dog for their bravery and dedication to public service at its latest award ceremony.
The event was held on Tuesday 6 October 2026, and acknowledged their courage, professionalism and commitment to support the Force’s vision to make Dorset a safe county for everyone.
Chief Constable’s Commendations were handed to Detective Constable Rachael Willcox and Police Constable Tom Kelly for their exceptional courage and sound judgement during a highly dangerous incident involving a suspected armed offender, and Police Constables Karen Thompson and Jacqui Ellis after they were deployed as on-call hostage and crisis negotiators following reports of a vulnerable person in crisis on a cliff top. For over 12 hours, Karen and Jacqui continued negotiating despite experiencing significant wind chill, fatigue and hunger and ultimately were able to steer the situation towards a safe resolution.
Inspector Kerry Shelley and Police Constables Daniel Morris and Alex Cottingham were among those who also received Chief Constable’s Commendations.
A number of officers and staff from a range of teams and departments were awarded the Long Service and Good Conduct medal, to celebrate their consistent service and contribution to being tough on crime, keeping people safe and putting victims first.
Police Constable Jane Bayliss and members of the public, Donna Barnes, Ethan Holmes-Good, Nicole Evans and others, were awarded the Royal Humane Society Award for their swift actions following an incident of a man suffering a sudden cardiac arrest. Jane was off duty when the incident occurred, but she stepped in to assist in maintaining the casualty’s airwave whilst CPR continued until care was handed over to the attending paramedics. The group’s action directly contributed to saving this man’s life.
Chief Constable’s Commendations and Royal Humane Society Awards were jointly received by Police Constables Edwin Deverill, Cam Turtle, Darrell Crabb and Amy Evans with other colleagues and members of the public for their exceptional courage, teamwork and selflessness during an incident involving a vulnerable woman in crisis on the wrong side of a footbridge. For approximately 30 minutes, they endured significant physical strain whilst holding the woman suspended above a drop estimated to be between ten and fifteen metres. Their efforts ensured that vital time was created for specialist emergency service resources to arrive and implement a safe rescue plan, and because of their actions, a tragic loss of life was prevented.
Police Dog Jeff was also recognised for his outstanding service ahead of his retirement, after eight years of distinguished operational duty. Working alongside his handler, Police Constable Sue Hillier, they have supported countless policing operations, with Jeff specialising in the search and detection of explosives, a role demanding exceptional focus, accuracy, and composure under pressure.
Chief Constable Rachel Farrell, of Dorset Police, said: “These award ceremonies provide an opportunity to recognise those who have gone above and beyond in serving our communities, supporting colleagues and embodying our values. From acts of courage and outstanding professionalism to innovation, teamwork and public service, the ceremony showcased the very best of Dorset Police and of our communities.
“Congratulations to all of our award winners and nominees, you should be immensely proud of all you have achieved."
Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner, David Sidwick said “The Force Awards are an opportunity to shine a light on the people behind the work of Dorset Police and recognise the difference they make every day. Whether working on the frontline, behind the scenes or as a volunteer, each of this year’s recipients has shown an exceptional commitment to serving our communities.
“Their work is not always easy, and much of it happens without recognition, so I am particularly pleased to see their efforts celebrated. I want to congratulate every award winner and thank them for the dedication they have shown to keeping Dorset safe and supporting the communities they serve.”
Has the bravery demonstrated by our award winners inspired you to make a difference to your community? Applications to become a police constable are open now and you can find out more here: https://www.dorset.police.uk/police-forces/dorset-police/areas/careers/careers/police-officer-roles/police-constables/
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