Police officers and staff and members of the public have been recognised for their good work and dedication at an awards ceremony held at Suffolk Police Headquarters in Martlesham.

The ceremony on Wednesday evening saw long service medals, good conduct awards and Royal Humane Society Awards handed out.

Attendees included Lady Clare Euston, Her Majesty’s Lord Lieutenant of Suffolk, and Suffolk’s Police and Crime Commissioner Tim Passmore.

Among those receiving awards were three members of the public who were awarded Royal Humane Society Awards medals, testimonials and certificates for acts of bravery in the saving of human life and for effecting successful resuscitations.

Staff and officers were given Long Service Awards, with recognition of service of up to 40 years.

Chief Constable Wilson also handed out his Certificates of Merit, Appreciation and Proud to Serve Suffolk Awards for Leadership.

One of those receiving a Merit Award was Simon Carpenter, who played a key part in setting up the constabulary’s Cadet Scheme.

Assistant Chief Constable Simon Megicks said: “Simon Carpenter has been instrumental in setting up the constabulary’s Cadet Scheme from the initial working group, looking at the feasibility of the scheme in Suffolk, to becoming the longest serving cadet leader nearly seven years later, having given approximately 300 hours per year to the scheme.

“The success and popularity of the Martlesham Cadet Unit is undoubtedly due to Simon’s commitment, enthusiasm, skills and experience.”

The ceremony began with the presentation of Royal Humane Society Awards. These included a presentation to Dani Lewis, 16, who rushed to a 67-year-old man in Stowmarket who had collapsed, immediately beginning CPR.

Dani’s early intervention undoubtedly contributed to the saving of the man’s life.

St John’s Ambulance volunteers Bernadette Dunning and Paula Stainton were also recognised after they gave CPR to a 78-year-old man who had collapsed in Newmarket, helping to save his life.

At the ceremony Chief Constable Gareth Wilson said: “Whether receiving an award for a specific matter as a regular officer, special officer, or member of staff celebrating long service, together with members of the public, tonight is a chance to come together with family, friends, and your policing family to be recognised for the very important role you have played in policing our communities.

“I would like to give my personal thanks to all the medal and award recipients present here today, for the valuable contribution that each and every one of you has made to the policing of this county.”

Mr Passmore added after the ceremony: “It was a wonderful occasion and I send my congratulations to everyone who received an award.

“For me it is deeply humbling and gratifying there are so many people within the constabulary who do so much to keep us safe, above and beyond the call of duty.”