Brave officer enjoys ‘special’ Downing Street reception

9 July 2026

A North Wales police officer nominated for the national Police Bravery Awards has reflected on a ‘special’ Downing Street reception with the Home Secretary.

PC Andy Collis joined nominees from across England and Wales at a special event in the gardens of 10 Downing Street hosted by Shabana Mahmood.

Andy said: “The experience has been great.

“We spent more than two hours there, and it’s been a really nice experience.

“Inside No10 it’s just wow. It’s stately, it’s got character throughout. It’s something special.”

PC Andy Collis.

Andy was nominated for his outstanding courage in responding to a domestic disturbance, despite not initially being assigned to the incident.

He found a man behaving erratically and throwing bricks from the middle of the road, before running down the driveway of a nearby property.

Andy chased the man into the property where he faced conditions he described as like a ‘horror movie’ with a large, deceased dog, a rat infestation and darkness from boarded-up windows.

The suspect then began to throw objects at him from the kitchen. But as Andy tried to restrain the suspect, he began attempting to stab Andy with a knife.

Body armour

Andy’s body armour saved him from serious injury.

Following a prolonged scuffle, Andy successfully disarmed the attacker before Force colleagues arrived at the scene to complete the arrest.

He said he was proud to represent the Force at the awards ceremony.

Andy said: “It’s been really interesting to hear what other officers have had to face. It’s been quite an eye-opener.

Proud moment

“It’s been a really proud moment for me.”

He added: “It’s been a really good few days.

“We visited the Houses of Parliament and I’m also looking forward to the awards ceremony and hearing the different stories and awards.”

Branch chair Trystan Bevan said: “It’s great to hear that Andy has enjoyed visiting Downing Street and the reception.

“Being hosted there by the Home Secretary is something that few people get to experience, and I’m sure it will stay with him for a long time.

“On behalf of the branch, we wish him the best of luck for this evening’s Bravery Awards ceremony.”

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