Skelmersdale police officers are commended for their service to the community

Jul 14 2011 by Michael Byrne, Skelmersdale Advertiser

POLICE officers in West Lancashire were honoured for their achievements, bravery and good work at a special ceremony.

Divisional Commander Chief Superintendent Stuart Williams hosted the awards evening to recognise those who have gone above and beyond the call of duty.

A Restorative Justice of the year award was presented to PC Beverley Lodge and PCSO Kelly Pennington who worked with neighbours on Ennerdale to resolve a long-standing dispute. The award’s commendation said that the situation was deteriorating rapidly and had the potential to provoke vigilante action and increase community tension.

The officers brought both parties together in a Restorative Justice Conference and they agreed to be better neighbours.

Restorative Justice is an initiative where police officers work to try and sort out disputed before it escalates into court action.

PC Lodge, community beat manager for Tanhouse, was also awarded the Harry Forrest cup for community officer of the year.

She said: “I was proud and humbled to receive this recognition. I thoroughly enjoy working in the Tanhouse area and it is touching to know that the work I have done in supporting residents has helped to improve their quality of life.”

PCSO Pennington added: “I am pleased to have won this award because it proves that what we are doing makes a difference.”

Former Skelmersdale officer Det Sgt Keith Duckworth and intelligence analyst Tom Crossley received recognition for their work in the prosecution and imprisonment of Paul McCarten, who was jailed for making death threats to his girlfriend.

Their commendation read: “There is no doubt that if it was not for the tenacity and dedication of the enquiry team, this man would have been free to commit very serious offences.”

Chief Supt Williams said: “It was an honour to be able to recognise the fantastic work and the admirable acts of bravery of my officers.”