Awards have been given out to police officers, police staff and members of the public for going above and beyond to protect Isle of Wight communities. The Isle of Wight Area Commander’s Awards were hosted by Superintendent Rob Mitchell at the Newport Congregational Church on Thursday 18th April. Supt Mitchell welcomed a number of special guests at the event, including Assistant Chief Constable Lucy Hutson, His Majesty’s Lord Lieutenant Susan Sheldon and Isle of Wight High Sheriff Graham Biss. Attendees heard of the bravery and dedication of not only police officers and staff from Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary working on the Island, but of selfless members of the public who came to the aid of others in their time of need, and partner agencies who have made a real difference to the lives of local people. Members of the police service were also recognised for their tenacious attitude towards investigating offences on the Island, and assisting victims of serious and violent crime. A group of Isle of Wight Police Cadets were also attested at the event.
Among those recognised was PC Holly Smith, who was awarded the Area Commander’s Certificate for providing emergency first aid to the victim of an attempted murder in Binstead. It was in June 2022 that Lee Orton killed his dog and slashed his wife’s throat. PC Smith, without hesitation, provided life-saving first aid to Lee’s wife who had suffered a number of stab wounds to her face, head and neck. In doing so, she displayed extraordinary courage and compassion in an unwavering commitment to saving life. As the ambulance arrived, Holly continued to support the victim, accompanying her to hospital and standing by her side throughout the ordeal. Her actions exemplify the very essence of professionalism. 

“Tonight is about recognising the truly exceptional work our officers and staff do day in and day out. Much of this work goes unnoticed, and when it is noticed they will say ‘I was just doing my job’. “It is more than that, and it should be recognised when people go above and beyond. There are so many examples of shining public service on the Isle of Wight. “I wish I had come to the Island earlier in my career – there is a real sense of civic pride here, and you find that in our police teams. “Tonight is about others too, it’s not just about policing. We will see the quality of the Island’s young people – we have our volunteer cadets here, a number of whom will be attested. We will also be celebrating some members of the public who have supported policing through their actions.”




























































































Or just doing the job she’s paid for..this is pathetic this awards nonsense.
Top geezer, Andy. Sorely missed.
Well done all.
Did the officer that performed a choke slam on a member of the public not get an award? What about the officer that made a prank call to another officer did he also not get an award?
Typical anti-police rhetoric from someone who does not support the bean.
I bet they scoured the lists looking for one, but, no surprise, couldn’t find a single one. No small doubt several on the perpetrator listings.
The Chief Inspector has his medals in the wrong order, LSGC goes last as it’s the junior award, basic protocol
If you look closely, it’s a recent temporary addition as no room the other side until it’s redone.