‘Once-in-a-lifetime’ experience for courageous officers
10 July 2025
Two West Mercia Police Federation members described representing the Force at the national Police Bravery Awards as ‘a once-in-a-lifetime’ experience.
Sergeant Kully Singh and PC Stacey Hegenbarth attended the awards and a day of events today (Thursday 10 July) in London.
The officers joined other bravery award nominees from across England and Wales at an exclusive reception in a grand state room at the Foreign Office.
There, they were joined by Home Secretary Yvette Cooper.
Sergeant Kully Singh and PC Stacey Hegenbarth.
After the reception, Kully and Stacey and their fellow nominees and their families visited Downing Street for photos and media interviews.
The awards ceremony itself will be held on Thursday evening.
Speaking after the reception, Stacey said: “It was a real honour.
“Just being in that environment, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
“It’s quite an overwhelming environment. I’m honoured to be acknowledged for coming here.”
Stacey said it was nice to be able to share the experience with Kully, who was a friend as well as a colleague.
Smart
And she said her dad, Tony, who she had brought with her, was ‘having the best time’.
“He doesn’t leave Worcestershire much, so coming to London has been an experience in itself for him,” she said. “He’s very proud.
“It’s nice to put the belts and braces on and look smart for the day and be able to be proud of ourselves.”
The officers were nominated for their incredible handling of a critical incident on the M5 motorway last July.
Called to reports of a vehicle travelling at reckless speed in the wrong direction down the southbound carriageway, the officers faced a dangerous and difficult task in bringing the situation to a safe conclusion.
With Kully driving, they manoeuvred to stop the vehicle with a near head-on collision.
Bruising
It left the officers with severe whiplash and Stacey with a concussion and abdominal bruising – all of which they have fully recovered from.
Kully said it was ‘humbling’ to be nominated as he paid tribute to the other nominees.
“It’s extremely humbling,” he said. “There are so many worthy people here.
“It’s amazing to hear their stories and to be in the same room as them. It’s been such a lovely day.
“From the Force, from the Fed, from everyone, there have been such warm wishes.”
Kully, who attended with his wife Amy, added: “It’s a once-in-a-service moment.
“It’s nice not just for Amy, but also for my family. They’ll see all the photos, which will be really nice.”
