Constabulary comes together to celebrate excellent policing

Exceptional acts of bravery, outstanding victim support, gold standard investigations and brilliant crime fighting were celebrated at Hertfordshire Constabulary’s Chief Constable’s Annual Awards on Wednesday evening (19 November).

Police staff, officers and volunteer finalists from across the constabulary, came together for the event - which is a force tradition - with Chief Constable Andy Prophet, Hertfordshire Police and Crime Commissioner Jonathan Ash-Edwards, Chief Fire Officer Alex Woodman and local dignitaries, including the Lord Lieutenant of Hertfordshire Robert Voss and Hertfordshire High Sheriff Nicholas Buxton.

Chief Constable Prophet said: “You will often hear those working in policing brushing off their amazing work by simply saying things like, ‘it’s just my job’ or ‘it’s what we do’. While that is true, policing is a job like no other and here in Hertfordshire police staff, officers and volunteers face complex challenges, distressing incidents and help those when they are often facing their darkest hour. Many of the extraordinary individuals who make up this constabulary, experience things as part of their job that most thankfully will not be faced with in their entire lifetimes.

“It is important that we as a force take time to pause, reflect and congratulate those who go above and beyond to catch criminals and keep people safe, whether that’s in a frontline role or within our support functions, enabling officers to respond to emergency calls for help and proactively target criminals who cause harm to our communities.

“This was my first annual awards event with the constabulary, having joined in January, and I continue to be immensely proud of all those who make up this great force.

“The standard of nominations for recognition was extremely high and demonstrates the great work taking place every single day within the constabulary. It is a privilege to serve as Hertfordshire’s Chief Constable.”

Since January, we have:

• Delivered almost 30,000 hours of patrols in hotspot crime areas
• Made more than 10,500 arrests
• Examined 2,600 crime scenes
• Seized almost 2,000 weapons
• Answered almost 154,000 emergency 999 calls
• Answered almost 204,000 non-emergency 101 calls
• Dealt with 1,200 missing people reports
• Dealt with more than 13,800 intelligence submissions

Chief Constable Prophet added: “This is all possible thanks to the collective effort of everyone who makes up Hertfordshire Constabulary and is just a small snapshot of the work staff, officers and volunteers are delivering to ensure Hertfordshire remains a safe place to live and work.”

Hertfordshire Police and Crime Commissioner Jonathan Ash-Edwards said: "The Chief Constable's Annual Awards is about the people who make policing in Hertfordshire what it is. The officers, staff and volunteers whose dedication, professionalism and courage have made this year one of real progress and achievement.

“These achievements don’t happen by accident. They happen because of the dedication of everyone who makes up the constabulary who put in the long hours, who make difficult decisions, and who turn up every day committed to protect the public. 

“The quiet professionalism, the compassion shown to victims, the split-second bravery, the moments of humanity on someone’s worst day. That is what these awards recognise. 

“To those who received awards on Wednesday: you represent the very best of policing. Your actions, whether in moments of danger, through outstanding investigative work, or by going above and beyond to support individuals and families, remind us what public service truly means. Thank you.”

 

Our award winners and finalists:

 

Cadet of the Year Award

Police Cadet Issack Aly, Watford

Seventeen-year-old Issack Aly has been a dedicated member of the Watford Cadet Unit since its relaunch in 2023. He proudly represented the team at last year’s County Cadet Competition and will be doing so again this year.

His commitment to the Cadets is unwavering - he attends every session and takes part in all additional activities. His enthusiasm and reliability are truly inspiring.

Issack’s nomination stems from a moment that perfectly captures his leadership and initiative. During his own time, he took it upon himself to host a pizza night at his home, bringing the team together to strengthen their bond and build team spirit. His email sharing this initiative was a proud moment -it reflected not only his positive choices but also the empowering role Cadets play in helping young people thrive.

This year, Issack has naturally stepped into a leadership role within the Watford team. His camaraderie, dedication, and ability to lead by example embody the very essence of good citizenship.

Volunteer of the Year Award

Police Support Volunteer Sue Blackley, Hertsmere Cadets

Sue Blackley exemplifies what it means to be an outstanding volunteer. Balancing a busy professional life and family commitments, she still finds time to give her all to Hertsmere Police Cadets - going far beyond what’s expected.

Sue brings energy, warmth and dedication to every session. Whether she’s organising engaging games or planning activities that complement police work, her creativity and enthusiasm shine through. Her presence is truly invaluable, and her absence is always felt.

Time and again, Sue has stepped in at the last minute when other leaders have been unavailable, ensuring sessions and events go ahead without disruption. Her reliability and selflessness have kept the unit running smoothly, and her support has been nothing short of essential.

Sue’s care for the Cadets is evident in everything she does. She instinctively notices when someone needs encouragement and is always there with a kind word or helping hand. She also leads on fundraising efforts, coordinating events like the Shenley Fete and an annual quiz night, which bring vital resources to the unit.

Always positive, endlessly generous with her time and deeply committed to the wellbeing of others, Sue is a truly remarkable volunteer. Her contribution to Hertsmere Police Cadets is immeasurable and we are incredibly lucky to have her. She is also an asset to the constabulary’s Executive Team, regularly supporting with force events such as the Family Day and internal awards ceremonies.

 

Police Staff Award for Operational Excellence

Winner – Intelligence Development Officer Hannah Farrow, who is based at Hatfield with the Central Intelligence Bureau

Hannah Farrow has delivered exceptional support as the sole intelligence officer for undercover operations across two policing districts. She has managed and disseminated intelligence, provided live-time checks for officers and developed new leads for investigations. Frequently, she responds to urgent requests outside working hours to complete time-critical checks.

Hannah has worked closely with the County Lines Investigation Unit (CLIU), supporting high-level disruption activity requiring rapid turnaround. Her work has resulted in arrests, charges, the seizure of drugs and weapons and the safeguarding of vulnerable people

Finalist – Police Staff Investigator Sean McGowan, who is based with the Domestic Abuse Investigation and Safeguarding Unit (DAISU) in Hatfield.

 

Health and Wellbeing Award

Winners – PC Jessica Amos and PC Clare Hawkins, who are both Intelligence Officers based in Hatfield.

On top of their busy day jobs, PC Jessica Amos and PC Clare Hawkins have trained as Wellbeing Champions, Menopause Champions and Welfare Support Officers.

They have embraced these roles with enthusiasm, tackling sensitive topics and breaking down stigmas by sharing personal experiences. Jess’s candidness on a wellbeing podcast received widespread positive feedback and helped normalise mental health conversations.

Since training, Jess and Clare have embedded wellbeing into the Intelligence department’s culture. They’ve supported individuals, assisted supervisors, and introduced initiatives such as wellbeing walks, drop-in sessions, newsletters and activities, creating a more inclusive environment.

Their impact extends beyond Intel. In Dacorum, they helped establish a Wellbeing Council and advised on drop-in sessions. They’ve also run wellbeing drop-ins at Hatfield Police Station, ensuring frontline officers, who are often hard to reach due to the nature of their roles, have access to support.

Jess led efforts to coordinate menopause sanitary supplies across the organisation, ensuring provisions in all female toilets.

Both officers have supported trauma training sessions, which are essential to ensure the welfare of those responding to distressing incidents.

Jess and Clare consistently go above and beyond to boost morale and support colleagues.

Finalist – Force Chaplain Yasmin Hamid

 

Response Officer of the Year Award

Winner – PC Connor Phipps, who is a Response Officer based in Hertsmere.

PC Connor Phipps is an outstanding Response Officer whose calm presence, professionalism and extensive frontline experience set him apart. He approaches every shift with positivity and dedication, quietly delivering under pressure. Though unassuming, his impact is significant.

Connor is a natural role model, regularly tutoring new officers and ensuring the policing Code of Ethics is upheld. His adaptability and solution-focused mindset allow him to embrace challenges confidently. With strong local knowledge and operational awareness, he is trusted by colleagues and the public alike.

As one of the senior PCs on the team, Connor’s presence at complex or high-risk incidents instils confidence. He leads calmly and methodically, earning respect for his guidance and leadership. Proactive and self-briefed, he uses intelligence systems to target patrols effectively and disrupt criminal activity.

A standout example was a burglary at a local shopping park. Connor identified the suspect via CCTV, recognised him from earlier and conducted further enquiries at known locations. His swift actions led to an arrest within hours and a successful remand into custody.

Connor has the highest arrest rate on the team and is among the most proactive in stop and searches. His ability to self-generate work and enthusiasm for policing are unmatched.

Always impeccably presented and committed to helping victims, Connor sets the standard for professionalism. His influence, proactive nature and dedication make him an invaluable member of the team.

 

Leadership Excellence of the Year Award

Winner – Sergeant Karen Mellor, who is based in the force Community Safety Unit at Stevenage.

Sergeant Karen Mellor’s contribution to Stevenage is exceptional. A consummate professional and natural leader, she is central to neighbourhood and partnership policing, quietly driving progress across the district and county.

Karen leads on securing Criminal Behaviour Orders (CBOs) for prolific shoplifters. She developed and delivered CBO training to all Neighbourhood Policing Teams and Community Safety Unit (CSU) colleagues, sharing best practice force-wide.

Her commitment to community engagement is outstanding. Working with Hertfordshire Development Officers and England Netball, Karen launched netball sessions for women in contingency hotels, creating safe spaces for laughter and learning. She also supported partners to establish weekly football drop-ins for men, coordinating NPT and CSU attendance to provide consistent engagement and signposting to vital services.

Karen influenced taxi licensing conditions with the local council, embedding training on violence against women and girls (VAWG), cuckooing and child sexual exploitation (CSE). She delivered this to more than 50 drivers and extended it to hotels and licensed premises alongside the ‘Ask Angela’ campaign.

At a national level, Karen served as the county’s single point of contact for Operation Sceptre, which targets knife crime. She attended national meetings, planned a two-week campaign for Stevenage, created ready-to-use activity plans and secured resources from other districts.

Her leadership, humility and tireless dedication make her an invaluable asset and a credit to the force.

Finalist – Sergeant Kelly Kemp, who works in the force Professional Development Unit training student officers.

 

Police Community Support Officer of the Year Award

Winner – Supervisor PCSO Steven Shaw, who is based in Watford

Visible, engaging and proactive, Supervisor PCSO Steven Shaw exemplifies community policing at its best. With more than 20 years serving Watford town centre, his contribution is exceptional and his presence a constant reassurance.

Steve has built strong relationships with key stakeholders. Watford’s BID (Business Improvement District) once recruited him for a year, and the local authority regularly praises his commitment to partnership meetings. The shopping centre commends his passion for crime prevention and his work with CCTV and security teams.

He regularly runs stalls at banks to raise awareness of counter-fraud initiatives, particularly for customers potentially at risk. Steve works closely with the YMCA to support vulnerable residents and has forged vital links with homeless charities, enabling effective information sharing.

His hands-on approach is legendary. CCTV often captures him chasing shoplifters - sometimes diving to detain suspects. His knowledge of offenders is unmatched; he can identify persistent thieves, drug dealers and weapon carriers with uncanny accuracy.

Steve’s work has measurably reduced crime and increased community safety. He also brings communities together, linking diverse groups and partners with differing views. Known for his positivity, passion and ever-present smile, Steve consistently goes above and beyond.

Finalist – PCSO Cheryl Ann Cullen, who is based in Stevenage.

 

Investigator of the Year Award

Winner – Detective Constable Ellie Cowling, who is based within the Sexual Offences Investigation Team (SOIT) in Hatfield.

Detective Constable Ellie Cowling has grown into an exceptional investigator, demonstrating sharp attention to detail and an outstanding ability to identify risk. Her commitment to victim care and determination to achieve the best outcomes for the most vulnerable are commendable.

Ellie led one of the SOIT’s most complex investigations - Operation Plesio - into rape, coercive control, stalking and voyeurism committed by a serving Metropolitan Police Officer, a case that attracted national media attention. Seconded to the Major Crime Unit (MCU), she handled the investigation with professionalism and compassion. Through meticulous work, Ellie identified three victims across the UK who had suffered horrific abuse, supporting them throughout the investigation, trial and beyond. While the suspect was convicted of multiple domestic abuse offences, a hung jury resulted in a retrial for two counts of rape. The retrial resulted in him being sentenced to a total of 16 years in prison.

An Independent Sexual Violence Advisor praised Ellie’s exceptional support to victims and families. Her empathy and resilience have made a lasting impact.

Still early in her career, Ellie builds trust, uncovers every lead and gives each case her full attention. A tenacious, skilled and compassionate detective who is truly deserving of recognition.

Finalist – CID Detective Constable Eleri Clarke, who is based in North Herts.

 

Student Officer of the Year Award

Winner – PC Izabela Nowosinska, who is a Response Officer in North Herts.

PC Izabela Nowosinska has made a remarkable impression since joining the force in September 2023 via the Degree Holder Entry Programme (DHEP). Her professionalism, dedication and positive attitude set her apart.

Hardworking and reliable, Izabela takes pride in delivering a victim-focused service and consistently achieves high-quality outcomes. She embraces challenges with enthusiasm, tackles complex investigations confidently and uses feedback to grow - clear indicators of her potential.

Even as a student officer, Izabela supports others with empathy and patience, often going above and beyond to help colleagues. Her collaborative approach and willingness to share knowledge make her a valued team member and natural mentor.

Her exceptional work is widely recognised with regular positive feedback from other departments.

Izabela exemplifies the qualities of an outstanding officer - principled, proactive and compassionate. She is already making a real difference and is truly deserving of recognition.

Finalist – PC Amy Martin, who is a Response Officer in Welwyn Hatfield

 

Tutor of the Year Award

Winner – PC Tom Eaton, who is based in the Workforce Development Unit in Hatfield supporting recruits.

PC Tom Eaton is one of the most dedicated and hardworking individuals in policing. From day one, he has consistently gone above and beyond, demonstrating professionalism and commitment that set him apart. Whether supporting new recruits, developing learning materials or being a reliable presence, Tom gives 110 per cent to everything he does.

His selflessness and positivity make him stand out. No matter how busy he is, Tom always makes time for others - offering guidance, reassurance or simply a listening ear. His approachable nature creates a safe, supportive environment where new officers feel empowered to grow. His empathy and patience leave a lasting impact.

Tom’s forward-thinking approach to tutoring is another reason he deserves recognition. He adapts his style to suit individual needs, using creative techniques to make training engaging and effective. His emotional intelligence and awareness are rare and deeply appreciated.

Outside of work, Tom invests significant time in developing his own knowledge and skills. He keeps up to date with best practices, policing developments and learning theory, because he genuinely wants to be the best tutor he can be. His intrinsic motivation inspires those around him and sets a high standard.

His passion for helping others succeed is evident in everything he does. His influence extends far beyond the officers he tutors, shaping better policing and fostering a culture of excellence.

Finalist -PC Matthew Henry-Randell, who is a Response Officer in Broxbourne.

 

Police Staff Award for Outstanding Support

Winner – Police Staff Daphne Panayi, who is based in the Workforce Development Unit in Hatfield.

Daphne is an exceptional team member who consistently demonstrates outstanding commitment to operational delivery and public service. Her professionalism, dedication and positive attitude shine through in everything she does.

She approaches every task - complex or routine - with care, precision and a genuine desire to make a difference. Her attention to detail and ability to anticipate needs make her an invaluable asset. From managing operational demands to assisting with urgent tasks, Daphne delivers work of the highest standard.

Her calm, solutions-focused approach under pressure is particularly impressive. She remains composed, ensuring tasks are completed efficiently and accurately. Reliable and consistent, her integrity sets a powerful example for others.

Though she never seeks recognition, Daphne’s impact is felt across the organisation. She is generous with her time, always willing to help, and her kindness fosters a positive, inclusive environment. Her collaborative spirit and quiet leadership build trust and cohesion among teams.

Daphne embodies the values of teamwork. Her work ethic, humility and commitment to doing things right reflect the very best of police staff excellence. She uplifts those around her, shaping a culture of respect, diligence and care. Deeply respected by colleagues, she consistently contributes to team success.

Her influence extends beyond her immediate role, and her efforts have been instrumental in maintaining high standards across the organisation.

Finalist – Police Staff Paul Cherry, who is based within the force Fleet Team.

 

Neighbourhood Policing Officer of the Year Award

Winner – Inspector Mark Collins (now Temporary Chief Inspector), was nominated for his work while the Neighbourhood Policing Team Inspector in East Herts.

T/Chief Inspector Mark Collins has served as Neighbourhood Policing Team Inspector in East Herts for five years, consistently demonstrating outstanding leadership, innovation and dedication to public service. His work has delivered measurable improvements in community safety and created a lasting legacy.

Mark’s leadership on violence against women and girls (VAWG) is a key example of his impact. As the Community Safety Partnership lead, he initiated a data-driven engagement process, gathering more than 300 responses from local women to identify concerns. He secured funding to improve Hertford’s night-time economy, delivering monitored CCTV, Operation Vigilant deployments, protective powers and bystander training for 250 staff. These efforts achieved a 23 per cent reduction in VAWG-related offences and embedded cultural change across agencies.

He also led Operation Tacet, a high-risk, intelligence-led operation targeting an organised crime group. As Silver Commander, he developed a robust 4P Plan (Prepare, Protect, Prevent, Pursue), addressed capability gaps and coordinated a multi-agency response. The operation resulted in more than 60 disruptions, 30 arrests and closure of a key organised crime group premises. His post-enforcement reassurance strategy restored public confidence and prevented re-establishment.

Mark is a visible, engaged leader who balances strategic thinking with frontline delivery. Respected by colleagues and partners, his work on VAWG and serious organised crime has improved safety and strengthened trust between police and the community.

Finalist – PC Iftakhar Iqbal, who is part of the Neighbourhood Policing Team in Harpenden.

 

Simon Winters Special Constabulary Officer of the Year Award

This award was renamed in 2022 in tribute to Special Sergeant Simon Winters, honouring his extraordinary dedication to policing and public service before his untimely passing aged just 61.

Winner – Special Inspector Carl Powell, who carries out his volunteer duties in Stevenage.

Special Inspector Carl Powell has shown unwavering dedication to the constabulary and transformed the Stevenage Special Constable team. When Carl joined as Special Sergeant - later promoted to Inspector - he brought renewed energy and support to the team. He immediately engaged with every Special, arranging meetings, maintaining regular contact and creating a positive, collaborative environment.

Carl goes above and beyond to help officers achieve Police Action Checklists (PACs), ensuring readiness for independent patrol. He frequently works shifts alongside Specials, offering practical guidance and sharing his extensive knowledge. His support has accelerated development for many officers.

His leadership extends beyond operational guidance. He prioritises wellbeing, checking in on colleagues and making adjustments to support them during challenging times. His empathy and proactive care set him apart as a leader who genuinely values his team.

What stands out most is Carl’s willingness to assist beyond his district. He regularly offers help to Specials across the county, demonstrating his commitment to the constabulary and officer development. His approachable nature, professionalism and dedication have earned him respect throughout the organisation.

Finalist – Special Sergeant David Chesney, who carries out his volunteer duties in Cheshunt.

 

Excellence in Fighting Crime Award

Winner - PC Kate Mawer, who is based in the force’s Domestic Abuse Investigation and Safeguarding Unit (DAISU).

PC Kate Mawer has shown exceptional dedication and expertise in her work with Domestic Violence Protection Orders (DVPOs) and Stalking Protection Orders (SPOs), making her a truly deserving winner of this award.

Kate plays a vital role in safeguarding vulnerable individuals, directly preventing further harm in high-risk domestic abuse and stalking cases. She has led numerous successful DVPO and SPO applications under tight deadlines, building strong, evidence-based cases that achieve a consistently high success rate in court.

Widely recognised as a subject matter expert, Kate combines precision with compassion. She regularly supports and mentors colleagues across the force, raising confidence and capability. Her guidance has improved standards and strengthened operational delivery.

Victim care is at the heart of Kate’s work. She approaches every case with empathy and professionalism, ensuring victims feel heard, supported and protected. Feedback frequently highlights how her involvement made victims feel safe and empowered to move forward.

Beyond casework, Kate has driven improvements in managing DVPOs and SPOs across the force. She has streamlined processes, enhanced documentation and built strong relationships with legal teams, courts and partner agencies. Her collaborative approach ensures protective orders are effectively implemented and monitored.

Kate’s impact is measurable and meaningful. Her work has reduced repeat victims and improved long-term safeguarding outcomes. She exemplifies professionalism, integrity and care, and her quiet determination has made a lasting difference. Kate is the driving force behind protective powers within the force and an invaluable asset.

Finalist – PC Liam Seville, who is based within Operational Support Group in Hertford.

 

Team of the Year Award

Winner – Child Online Safeguarding Team (COST)

COST tackles some of the most distressing crimes imaginable, yet remains relentless in pursuing offenders. They execute warrants, make arrests and review disturbing material without hesitation - despite growing workloads and emotional strain.

A recent case shows their ability to mobilise instantly. During a routine phone review, a child was identified as being abused by their grandfather. Within an hour, the team acted: officers deployed for arrest and search, safeguarding was arranged at the child’s school, social services were engaged, intelligence provided real-time support and interviews were conducted - all while other officers were executing a separate warrant. Later that day, the same device revealed another suspect. Despite being near the end of their shift, the team launched a second operation without hesitation.

So far this year, the team have secured more than 83 years in custodial sentences and 153 charges.

COST operates quietly and unflinchingly. Whether dealing with a single indecent image or confronting contact offenders, they never shy away. They never deflect. They never stop.

People often say, ‘I couldn’t do that job’. They’re right. COST is more than a team - they are protectors, investigators and warriors for justice. They are, without question, deserving of the title Team of the Year.

Finalist – Covert Investigation Unit

 

Chief Constable’s Award

The recipients of this special award are personally selected by Chief Constable Andy Prophet.

Winner – the Operational Learning Team.

Charged with the considerable responsibility of transforming new police recruits into student officers ready to continue their professional journeys onto the front line, the Operational Learning Team based at Gosling work to exacting standards.

From concentrated classroom learning to conveying the skills required for personal safety, the team push themselves to the limit to ensure that our young in-service officers are exposed to the best possible training opportunities.

National police recruitment initiatives such as Operation Uplift and the need to meet tough delivery targets have presented challenges but to their credit the crew, supported by team leaders Duncan Goodall and Adam Hawes just get on with the task in hand.

In the past few years, a record number of student officers have gone through the training doors at Gosling, been put through their paces and left on the front foot armed with the knowledge and skills needed to help those thousands of people who every year, turn to the police for help, often in their darkest hour.

The results of the initial training team are for all to see when proud families and friends attend the special graduation ceremonies at Police HQ which mark the end of the first chapter in a student officers’ story.

A willingness to adapt to meet current demands and sometimes juggle impossible timetables are a key strength for the team who are more than worthy recipients of the prestigious Chief Constable’s Award.

Inspired to join us? Hertfordshire Constabulary is recruiting now. Find out more on the force’s Careers page.