Community Policing Awards

Special Constable of the Year

Special Constable Simon Bale being presented with his award by Sir Hugh Orde President of the Association of Chief Police Officers (ACPO).

The 2009 award was won by Special Constable Simon Bale (Somerset West) who is based at Watchett Police Station.

I joined at 18 and have been a Special for 20 years now. If it wasn't for the continued encouragement of colleagues I probably wouldn't be here now, so I am accepting this award on behalf of them and feel very humbled."

"I don't do it for awards. I enjoy helping people out it was a complete surprise to be nominated, let alone win. I'm very grateful and it would be nice to think I could help inspire new officers.

SC Simon Bale

The 2009 nominees were:

Ricki Lippiatt - Bristol
Philip Davis - B&NES
Philip Read - Somerset East
Simon Bale - Somerset West

About the award

Special Constables give up their time on a voluntary basis to support the work of their Neighbourhood Team colleagues in making local communities feel safe and be safe.

The winner will be a Special Constable who, as part of the team, has made a real difference in reducing crime and improving the quality of life for all the community.

Award Criteria for panel short listing:

A Special Constable who has regular personal contact with their local community. They offer a visible reassurance and improve the quality of life for local people.
The Special Constable cuts crime and reduces the fear of crime in their area by gathering intelligence, arresting offenders and providing practical crime prevention advice.
The Special Constable should be seen by the community, and their Neighbourhood Team, as an essential element of life in the neighbourhood – working in partnership with local people to make the community safer and stronger.