Special constable recognised for outstanding commitment to policing

Warminster-based Special Constable, Ben Manning received the Police and Crime Commissioner’s Special Constable of the Year award on Tuesday night in recognition of his dedication and community-focussed policing style.

Police and Crime Commissioner, Philip Wilkinson said: “Whilst Ben is young in service, I very much see him as the future of Wiltshire Police. His dedication to policing is clear, and despite being a volunteer he works similar hours to regular police officers alongside his full-time job.

“His knowledge and ability to lead by example is greatly valued by his colleagues and he consistently strives to improve police volunteer services both to benefit Wiltshire’s communities and his fellow volunteers.

“When people encounter the police it is often at one of the worse times in their lives and as a leader it is always reassuring to know that we have officers like Ben to support and help people in their hour of need.

“We are all very proud to call him part of Wiltshire Police and are in awe of his commitment, and the commitment of all of our volunteers, to making Wiltshire safer."

In addition to being a Special Constable, Ben also volunteers as a cadet leader in the Trowbridge area working with young people in their local communities and supporting community engagement.

Special constables are volunteer officers who have the same powers and responsibilities as regular officers and carry out the same roles. Specials come from all walks of life and volunteer their spare time for a minimum of 16 hours a month.

The awards ceremony was held at Chalk Barn, Pewsey, where nearly 100 people gathered to celebrate the hard work, dedication and bravery of police staff, officers, volunteers and members of the public.

Awards were given out to those who had made an outstanding contribution to policing and public safety, including acts of incredible bravery to save lives and make Wiltshire safer. A special award was also presented to the Youth Commission in recognition of their work to bridge the gap between young people, the police and the Police and Crime Commissioner which proved invaluable in the development of the Police and Crime Plan.

“I was honoured to join the Chief Constable and other distinguished guests last night to celebrate the award winners and recognise the extraordinary people who make up Wiltshire Police and our wider communities.

“They have undoubtedly made our county a safer place to live and work,” added Mr Wilkinson.

More information on recipients can be found on Wiltshire Police’s website.

Published Thursday 5 May 2022