POLICE officers from Shropshire and beyond were recognised for their service at a ceremony at West Mercia Police headquarters this month,

30 West Mercia Police officers received long service and good conduct medals and ten members of staff received certificates of long service at a ceremony at Hindlip Hall last week.

The awards, held between July 5 and 6, were presented by His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of Herefordshire Edward Harley and Vice Lord Lieutenant of Shropshire Jenny Wynn, and recipients were personally congratulated by acting chief constable Alex Murray.

For an officer to be eligible for this award, the chief constable must make a recommendation to the home secretary and, in doing so, is required to certify that the officer has served as a member of a police force for the qualifying period of 20 years and during that period the officers’ character and conduct has been honourable.

Acting chief constable Alex Murray said: “I am incredibly honoured to be here with everyone and their families on such a special occasion. It is a moment to recognise the dedication, achievement, and hard work our officers, staff, specials and volunteers have given to the organisation and our communities.

“I would like also to extend my thanks to their families for their support”.

Deputy police and crime commissioner Marc Bayliss said: “In police and crime commissioner John Campion’s role as the voice of the public in policing, it was an honour to attend both ceremonies with every single officer a shining example of public service. The length of service all officers have achieved with distinction is a testament to their commitment, determination, and hard work to build a more secure West Mercia."