Durham Constabulary’s national Police Bravery Award nominees have shared their pride at attending an exclusive reception with the Home Secretary in London.

 

Courageous duo PC Andy Docherty and PC Josh Laddie have travelled down to the capital for the Bravery Awards after being recognised for their heroics in intervening in a violent knife attack, potentially saving the life of a man involved.

 

Before the ceremony itself this evening, the pair, joined by friends and family, have enjoyed a special event at 10 Downing Street with their fellow nominated officers from across England and Wales.

 

They were welcomed by Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood, who formally addressed nominees and congratulated them on their remarkable acts of policing commitment.

 

Speaking after the reception, Andy said: “It was a really nice experience with the Home Secretary.

 

“It’s a proud day to be a police officer, especially when you think [you’re here] because you were just doing your job. You’re invited down here, and you realise the different jobs people do in policing and the significance of those jobs.

 

“Both of our partners are in the job too, so it was nice to share and experience it with them. It might be the only time in our careers that we get to come here, to Downing Street, so it’s really nice.”

 

Josh echoed these sentiments on a ‘lovely’ occasion, adding that it was pleasing to get some pictures with the Home Secretary.

 

Turning their attentions to the highly anticipated Bravery Awards ceremony, Andy and Josh discussed their excitement for the evening ahead.

 

“I’m really looking forward to tonight’s ceremony – it will be an absolute privilege to be there,” Josh said.

 

Branch chair Louise Guest reiterated her best wishes for the officers, saying: “I am thrilled that Andy and Josh are already enjoying their day, and I can only imagine that will continue later as they arrive at the ceremony venue.

 

“Without doubt, they deserve to have a day where they can switch off from duties and enjoy being told how amazing they are.

“To get that from the Home Secretary is something I’m sure felt like an honour, especially in front of their loved ones, so I’m very happy for them.”