Police officers whose courage and professionalism were recognised at the Police Federation Bravery Awards this year were celebrated at a special reception hosted by the First Minister at the Senedd.
The event, organised in partnership with the Police Federation, brought together nominees and winners from all four Welsh police forces to recognise their outstanding commitment to protecting the public.
The reception provided an opportunity to acknowledge officers who have demonstrated exceptional bravery in often dangerous and unpredictable circumstances, while highlighting the vital role policing plays in keeping communities safe across Wales.
Among those recognised were this year’s Welsh winners, Gwent Police officers PC Danielle Cole and PC Thomas Simmonds. The pair were honoured for their actions at a house fire in Tredegar, where PC Cole re-entered a smoke-filled property to rescue a trapped casualty while PC Simmonds supported the rescue effort.
Other nominees included Dyfed-Powys Police officer PC Spencer Rourke, who entered the sea at Milford Haven to rescue a distressed woman; South Wales Police officers PS Peter Williams, PC Gareth Green and PC Matthew Reynolds, who safely resolved a dangerous chainsaw incident in Bridgend; and North Wales Police officer PC Andrew Collis, who continued to protect the public despite being injured while responding to a violent incident.
Addressing the reception, First Minister Rhun ap Iorwerth paid tribute to the officers’ dedication and service.
First Minister Rhun ap Iorwerth said: “It was great to have the opportunity today to congratulate the Welsh nominees and winners of the Police Bravery Awards and thank them personally for their service and commitment to protecting the Welsh public.
“We are indebted to the officers for their quick thinking and brave actions that have saved people from distress, injury and even death. Each one of you are an example of outstanding commitment to ensuring the safety of people in Wales and I thank you all for your continued service to our country.”
The Police Federation welcomed the opportunity to celebrate the achievements of its members.
Zac Mader, Police Federation Welsh Lead, said: "We would like to thank the First Minister and Welsh Government for hosting this special event recognising the Welsh nominees in this year's Police Federation Bravery Awards.
"The extraordinary courage, selflessness and dedication shown by these officers deserve the highest recognition. They have gone above and beyond the call of duty, putting themselves in harm's way, risking their own lives and, in doing so, saving the lives of others.
"Their actions represent the very best of policing and demonstrate the commitment officers show to protecting the public and keeping our communities safe. It is vital their bravery and sacrifices are recognised and celebrated. We are incredibly proud of every nominee."
The 31st Police Federation Bravery Awards took place on Thursday 9 July, celebrating the extraordinary acts of courage carried out by more than 100 police officers from 39 police forces across England and Wales.
These awards would not be possible without the support of Police Mutual, who have steadfastly sponsored the Police Federation Bravery Awards for more than 10 years.
