Mary Reid

I wouldn't normally include a formal group photo on my blog, preferring informal shots, but this is a remarkable collection of heroes.

Every person standing in this picture was commended by the Borough Commander, Chief Superintendant Angela List, at a ceremony yesterday.

We heard how some had shown bravery when dealing with violent criminals or rescuing people; some had conducted difficult investigations; some had had a significant impact on the number of burglaries and robberies in the Borough; some had diffused tensions after 7th July. 

One member of the Council's housing team, Grace Slade, was also honoured for partnership working.

I know I couldn't do the job.  These Police officers take a risk every time they go outside the doors of the station.  And they put their emotional as well as their physical well-being at risk, because some of the cases they deal with are deeply disturbing.