THE bravery, professionalism and commitment of Pembrokeshire police officers in safeguarding the communities they serve has been celebrated at an awards ceremony.

The Pembrokeshire Divisional awards ceremony was held at the De Valence Pavilion, Tenby recently, and also acknowledged the work done by police staff, special constables, volunteers and cadets.

Said county commander, Superintendent Ross Evans: “I am continually impressed with the work that our staff carry out every day.

“They make a real difference to people’s lives, and go the extra mile to make sure that our community remains not only the most beautiful, but also the safest place in the UK.”

An outstanding display of courage by a young Tenby student officer won her the evening’s bravery award.

PC Jessica Lawrence, who is in her first year of service after joining the force as a PCSO, showed “exceptional bravery” during the incident in a Tenby pub, said Superintendent Evans.

He added: “PC Lawrence dealt with an extremely violent male who assaulted her and made her believe that he had a gun.”

Detective Constable Lisa Roberts won the Investigation of the Year award for her four years’ work on an historic child abuse case.

Police officer of the year was PC Robert Garland, stationed in Pembroke Dock, who is also a lifeboatman in his home town of Tenby.

Haverfordwest-based Detective Constable Kelly Rowlands was awarded the detective of the year accolade for her consistent achievement of convictions in complex cases.

Milford Haven officers, Sergeant Terri Harrison and PC Emma Smyth, who have worked with the local community to raise awareness of autism, won the ‘We Care’ award.

Also in Milford, the town’s Community Speed Watch team won the Volunteer of the Year award. The team assist police with speed gun patrols, advising motorists on risks at local hot spots.

During the evening, a presentation of £500 was made to the 2 Wish Upon a Star charity, whose founder, Rhian Manning, won the Partnership award.

The charity was set up following the sudden and tragic death of her son and husband, and provides bereavement support for families who have suddenly and tragically lost a child or young adult.

The presentation was made by Police and Crime Commissioner, Dafydd Llywelyn, who said: “I would like to thank Rhian for bringing the charity’s services to Pembrokeshire and supporting our staff in Dyfed-Powys police in their response to such tragic cases.

“Rhian is an absolute inspiration and this award recognises the significant contribution she has made to our staff and our communities.”

The evening was compered by Rachel Treadaway-Williams; sponsored by Nation Broadcasting and organised by Charlies Marcham and Nigel Lewis. E Police officer of the year: PC Robert Garland, Pembroke Dock.

Detective of the year: PC Kelly Rowlands, Haverfordwest.

Student officer of the year: PC Emma Robertson, Milford Haven.

Police staff of the year: PCSO Robert John, Haverfordwest.

Special constabulary award: S/Sgt Beth Thomas, Haverfordwest.

Volunteer of the year: Milford Haven Community Speed Watch team.

Best all-round volunteer cadet: Cadet Morgan Evans.

Leader of the year: PCSO Andrew Griffiths, Tenby and PCSO Paul Emmanuel, Tenby.

Bravery award: PC Jessica Lawrence.

Life-saving award: PC Eve Rees, Haverfordwest; PC Rhys Howells, Haverfordwest; PC Rachel Finnan, Haverfordwest; PC Samnang Picton-Evans, Haverfordwest; PS Teleri Bowen, Haverfordwest; PC Daniel Thomas, Haverfordwest; PC Paul Smyth, Armed Response team; PC Dyfed Jones, Armed Response team.

We Care award: PS Terri Harrison, Milford Haven and PC Emma Smyth, Milford Haven.

Partnership award: Rhian Mannings, 2 Wish Upon a Star.

Investigation of the year: DC Lisa Roberts, Haverfordwest.

Team of the year: Investigation Support Unit.

Special recognition award: retired Inspector Aled Davies; retired Chief Inspector Steve Matchett; retired Inspector Ian John.

Entertainment was provided by Carmarthen Ukuleles and Bella Voce.