PCSO and special constables honoured at flood award ceremony
Issued by North Yorkshire Police
A North Yorkshire Police Community Support Officer and members of the Special Constabulary have been recognised for their work during the floods of 2012.
The awards ceremony was hosted by BBC Radio York at the Guildhall, York, on Tuesday 26 March 2013.
Police Community Support Officer Chris Upton, who was nominated for the awards by the Clerk for Naburn Parish council on behalf of the local community, won two categories – the Emergency Services Flood Hero and the Individual Flood Hero.
On Tuesday 25 September 2012, Chris cycled through rising flood water to get to Naburn where he acted as a point of contact for the local community, offering reassurance. He also monitored where the river was threatening to flood homes and ensured that sandbags were delivered to the most vulnerable properties.
Chris Upton, speaking about the awards, said: “I am very proud to be nominated for these awards.
“I am pleased that I was able to play my part and be of help during the atrocious weather which caused so many people so much distress. I hope my efforts went some way to reducing this upset.”
PCSO Upton added: “The award is particularly special as I know everyone involved in the work during and following the flooding went above and beyond what was expected of them.”
In the categories for most helpful team or individual in the City of York Council area and the Selby area, the team of special constables from Selby received a silver award and the York team received a bronze award for their work in the respective locations.
The whole team of special constables received a bronze award in the Emergency Services Flood Hero – Most Helpful Emergency Services in York and North Yorkshire category. They also received a commendation in the Team Flood Hero – Most Helpful Team in York and North Yorkshire category.
The Special Constables were nominated by Zoë Hodgkin, the Special Constabulary Liaison Officer York and Selby.
Zoë Hodgkin said: “I am very pleased that of the four categories which the Special Constabulary were entered into, they were shortlisted and recognised in each category for their commitment and dedication during the floods of 2012.
“Many of the specials who assisted during this operation had already completed a day’s work before putting in many hours of duty, working alongside their regular colleagues, members of the other emergency services and volunteers.”
Speaking about the awards received by members of the force, T/Chief Constable Tim Madgwick, said: “I am extremely proud to lead a force which is able to respond to natural disasters in such a rapid and well coordinated manner.
“These awards are a clear demonstration of the commitment given by everyone who works and volunteers for North Yorkshire Police to serve our local communities.
“I would like to thank all of the people involved in last year’s operation following the flooding across the county and congratulate all of the winners at today’s ceremony.”