Bravery awards: Hero officer praises courage of colleagues across the country

11 July 2025

A Nottingham Police Federation member nominated for a national Bravery Award has paid tribute to the everyday heroism of officers across the country.

Sergeant Rishi Thobhani joined other Bravery Awards nominees from across England and Wales for a day of celebrations in London on Thursday (10 July).

The day began with a reception with the Home Secretary, Yvette Cooper, in the Foreign Office.

It was followed by photos and media interviews outside 10 Downing Street.

 

Sergeant Rishi Thobhani (right) and best mate Rory Parsons.

 

In the evening, Rishi and his fellow nominees and their guests were joined by politicians and police leaders for a glittering awards ceremony.

Speaking at the ceremony, Rishi said: “We’re here for the awards, but there are thousands of police officers, day in day out, doing brave things who don’t get recognised.

“So, for us to be recognised is a big thing. It’s surreal but amazing.”

Surreal

Rishi shared the day with his best friend Rory Parsons, and said the experience would take a while to process.

“It was a bit surreal being in the building in the Foreign Office and then going to 10 Downing Street,” he said.

“Unfortunately, we didn’t see Larry the Cat, but it was still special. I don’t think it’s all sunk in yet.”

 

(left to right): Rory Parsons, PCC Gary Godden, Sergeant Rishi Thobhani,
DCC Rob Griffin and branch chair Mark Lee.

 

Rory added: “I always knew he was brave to do what he does, and to be here to support him is a great feeling.”

Rishi was nominated for the award for tackling a knife-wielding shoplifter in Arnold town centre while off duty.

The incident happened last year, and with children and families around Rishi acted swiftly to protect the public.

After a struggle with the offender, Rishi managed to disarm him and, with the help of members of the public, keep him detained until on-duty colleagues arrived.

Disarm

Rishi was also joined by Nottinghamshire Police Federation chair Mark Lee.

It was Mark’s first Bravery Awards since being voted in as chair, and he described how proud he was of Rishi.

He said: “It’s almost like a proud father moment, watching Rishi come out in his tunic, really proud, a beaming smile. It was a really nice moment.”

Mark added: “It’s a little overwhelming to see everybody here, the different nominees, different Chief Constables.

“It’s been a really good day, especially seeing Rishi being as proud as he is.”

This year’s overall winners of the Bravery Awards were Sergeant Gregory Gillespie, PC Luke Holden and PCSO Timothy Parry, from Merseyside Police.

Detained

The trio confronted and detained Axel Rudakubana after he killed three children at a dance class in Southport on Monday 29 July 2024.

Nottinghamshire Police Federation is part of Region 4: Eastern,  with PC Tom McGrath and PC Jack Milman from Leicestershire Police clinching the title in that category.

Having earlier held a reception for the nominees, Ms Cooper, later spoke at the ceremony, thanking all police officers for ‘keeping us safe’.

She said: “I’m hugely grateful, but I say this on behalf of people right across the country, we are hugely grateful for the bravery you show.

“Not just to face the really difficult things but then also to get back up the following morning and to face it all again.

“Thank you for doing that. Thank you for caring so much for the job that you do.

Safe

“And thank you so much for being part of the amazing thing that is British policing.

“Thank you for keeping us safe.”

The Prime Minister, Sir Kier Starmer, sent a video to all those attending that was shown during the event.

He said: “When faced with life-threatening risks, or an acutely distressing situation, most people would run or back away.

“But not you. You step up. You go towards the danger. You put the needs of others before your own. That’s why policing truly is a job like no other.

“It’s why my government will always do everything in our power to support you in your vital mission.

“On behalf of our whole country, I want you to know we appreciate your skill, your service, and your sacrifice. Not just today, but always.”

Addressing the audience later, Policing Minister, Dame Diana Johnson added: “Congratulations to every single nominee. You deserve all the plaudits and praise you receive.

“Regardless of whether you won or not, I hope you are all feeling incredibly proud of yourself. Your families, friends, and colleague are also incredibly proud of you.

Dedication

“For all that you have done and continue to do, thank you.”

PFEW national chair, Tiff Lynch, also thanked and praised officers for their ‘unwavering dedication, never knowing what challenges they may face’.

Tiff said: “In the face of uncertainty, danger and adversity, they act with courage and professionalism – not for accolades or applause, but because they truly believe in their duty to protect others.

“Tonight, as we celebrate the 30th Police Bravery Awards, we come together to recognise those whose actions have gone far beyond what is expected. The stories we share are not just examples of bravery – they are powerful reminders of the extraordinary risks officers take to keep our communities safe.

“Whether confronting violent attackers, rescuing individuals from life-threatening situations, or making split-second decisions under immense pressure, these officers have shown exceptional courage and selflessness.”

Read more about Rishi's nomination.