Merseyside Police celebrates dedication and bravery at annual Community First Awards

Merseyside Police celebrated its annual Community First Awards last night, Wednesday 12 November, to recognise police officers, staff, volunteers, and community partners for their dedication, bravery and professionalism.

The ceremony, now in its eighth year, saw members of the force awarded for a whole host of achievements.

Staff from partner agencies, volunteers and community leaders were also recognised for their vital work and their commitment to supporting and protecting communities, preventing crime and pursuing offenders in Merseyside alongside the police.
 
Nominations came in from across the force and a judging panel shortlisted nominations for the awards, with former Chief Constable Serena Kennedy and Police and Crime Commissioner Emily Spurrell each choosing a winner for their own personal choice awards.

Chief Constable Rob Carden presented the awards at the Crowne Plaza in Liverpool last night, describing the evening as “a wonderful opportunity to demonstrate to all our officers and staff, and those who work alongside us, just how much we value their hard work and determination.

He added: “Merseyside Police is built on the commitment of exceptional people who work tirelessly to protect local communities.

“We don’t often get the chance to pause and reflect on the incredible work that goes on across Merseyside – the Community First Awards provide an important opportunity to recognise and celebrate those who make a real difference.

“It is great that officers, staff, volunteers, partners, sponsors and members of the public can gather together to publicly acknowledge and applaud those efforts.

“The last 12 months have been incredibly challenging in many ways, but the steadfast commitment of officers and staff has enabled the force to overcome these challenges. They tirelessly put communities first and often make significant personal sacrifices to do so, going well over and above what is asked of them.

“I am immensely proud of the professionalism and dedication of every single person who works here, and every single person and team nominated for an award should feel hugely proud of what they have achieved.

“Hearing the personal stories behind the awards is both moving and humbling – a real reminder of what public service is all about.

“I know there are many more stories of heroism and commitment that could not be recognised last night, and I want to take this opportunity to put on record my deep gratitude to all officers and staff for their work.

“This awards night would not have been possible without the generosity of all our sponsors meaning there was no cost to Merseyside Police and a special thanks goes to A&B Engineering, The Lord-Lieutenant of Merseyside, Softcat, LFC, EFC, Motorola Solutions, LA Productions, NicheRMS365, Serve and Protect Credit Union, Willmot Dixon, NEC, SelectaDNA, ORLO, BlueStar Software and Police Mutual.

“Finally, I would again like to congratulate the winners and nominees. Merseyside Police is an organisation made up of amazing individuals, each putting our communities first and working as a team to keep people safe and I will never tire of thanking them for their efforts.”

Merseyside’s Police and Crime Commissioner Emily Spurrell said:

“The Community First Awards are a powerful reminder of the incredible individuals and teams who work tirelessly to keep Merseyside safe.

“From dedicated officers and staff to volunteers and community partners, these awards celebrate those who go above and beyond every single day. Their courage, professionalism and compassion make a real difference to people’s lives, and it is always a privilege to come together to recognise and honour their work – particularly after such a challenging year for our region.

“The stories of personal bravery, dedication, and determination from last night’s annual award ceremony truly showcased the very best of Merseyside Police and underline the outstanding work that takes place throughout the organisation, often in the face of real adversity.

“Every single person and team nominated for an award should feel hugely proud, and I would like to congratulate everyone who had their achievements recognised last night. It’s also important to acknowledge that there are countless more cases we couldn’t highlight last night that are also extremely worthy and my ongoing thanks go to all officers, PCSOs and staff across the organisation for their hard work, day in, day out.”

Among the winners on the night were:

• Bravery – Sergeant David Hicks

On 17 August 2024, David responded to a report of two people in difficulty in Liverpool Bay. After checking on the first casualty, he ran 500m to locate the second, a female 150m offshore who was struggling to stay afloat and in danger of drowning. Sergeant Hicks made a courageous decision to enter the water with a member of the public. Battling strong currents, they reached the unconscious female, secured her on a life ring, and swam back to shore, where colleagues assisted with a throw line. His actions undoubtedly saved her life. This was an extraordinary act of bravery, demonstrating leadership, resilience and selflessness. Sergeant Hicks risked his own life to protect another, embodying the very best of Merseyside Police and the values our communities expect from their officers.

Sergeant David Hicks said: “I swam 150 metres out into the water, was able to get the first lady out of the water and saw a second lady so, with the help of a member of public, managed to rescue her as well and swim her back to shore.  It was a massive relief when I heard her take a breath.  This is why I do it and why every officer who is out there now does it.  I was still soaking wet in my uniform and boots when I then went straight to a firearms deployment so I never met the people I rescued.”

• Police Officer of the Year: Constable Ryan Torley

Ryan exemplifies the very best of Liverpool Targeted Policing. Over the past year, his sustained performance and commitment to developing student officers have made him a role model across the force. His statistics are exceptional: 125 arrests, 240 stop searches (37% positive rate), 92 Traffic Offence Reports/summons files and 167 intelligence submissions. Ryan’s work has directly supported Vision Zero 2040 by reducing serious collision and contributed to national recognition through enhanced Op Invigour funding. He has played a key role in disrupting serious and organised crime and supporting the policing operation that followed violent disorder in Southport. His proactive policing includes high impact cases such as a £2m cannabis farm seizure and the arrest of two males armed with knives on County Road. Ryan’s dedication, professionalism and results-driven approach continue to inspire colleagues and deliver meaningful outcomes for communities across Merseyside.

Constable Ryan Torley said: “It’s a fantastic achievement for my hard work and dedication to be recognised in this way and for the every day role of a targeted officer.  I won it for my overall performance across the year and my work as a tutor constable and mentor, it’s great to support officers as they progress and develop.”

• Investigate Crime and Bring Offenders to Justice Award:  Major Crimes Unit – Southport Investigation

On 29 July 2024, a devastating attack at the Hart Space dance studio in Southport claimed the lives of three young girls and injured 10 others. The suspect was arrested at the scene and later charged with multiple offences including murder and attempted murder. The subsequent investigation became the most high-profile and complex investigation in Merseyside Police’s history.

The investigation team demonstrated exceptional professionalism and resilience under intense public and media scrutiny. Strong leadership, sound decision-making, and compassionate communication were vital in supporting victims, families and the wider Southport community. The Family Liaison Officers played a critical role in delivering sensitive updates and providing unwavering support. The tireless work of the investigation team over many months secured a compelling case. The suspect pleaded guilty in January 2025 and was sentenced to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 52 years. The efforts of the team brought justice and vital reassurance to all affected.

Detective Chief Inspector Jason Pye, Senior Investigating Officer, said: “For our team, it’s always about doing the right thing by the victims and their families, that’s what keeps us going.  During those long nights and upsetting times, it’s about serving the public and doing the best we can.  While it’s not something to celebrate, it’s very special to be recognised in this way.”

Detective Constable Sara Muscatelli added: “We are privileged and fortunate to work in a team and a department that supports us.  We dealt with the most horrific investigation but we had the most amazing team around us which ensured we were able to carry out the most detailed investigation.”

• Team of the Year: Economic Crime Team

The Economic Crime Team has delivered outstanding results in tackling fraud and organised crime while driving community impact. Despite rising demand, the team

achieved the third-best fraud detection rate nationally and disrupted 66 organised crime groups. Its innovative Fraud Investigation Model and Toolkit have improved victim safeguarding and shaped national best practice. The Proceeds of Crime Unit recovered a record £8.9 million in assets, with £3.2 million reinvested into 23 local community projects via the Community

Cashback Scheme. Through leadership, innovation and relentless professionalism, the team has strengthened public trust, protected vulnerable victims, and reinvested in safer communities. The team’s contributions reflect outstanding commitment to community-oriented policing.

Team of the Year – Economic Crime Team.  Mike Dalton, Detective Chief Inspector Economic Interventions said: “Over the past two-and-a-half years, we’ve reinvented the Economic Crime Team, putting a real focus on offences such as fraud and money laundering.  We’ve been proactive, effective and efficient and really hit criminals where it hurts, in the pocket.  This award is testament to all the team’s hard work.”

Other winners on the night included:

Police Staff Employee of the Year Award: PCSO Neil Mitchell

Police Special Officer of the Year Award: Special Constable Sophia Turner

Police Volunteer of the Year: Daniel Coward and Marie Heckle-Young

Support Victims and Vulnerable People Award: Detective Constable Iram Mahmood

Community Engagement Award: Sergeant Pippa Wilcox

Tackling Organised Crime Award: Kate Ferguson

Healthy People Award – Diversity and Inclusion: Inspector Maciej Matusiak

Healthy People Award – Wellbeing: Inspector Stephen Morris

Community First Partnership Award: Operation Combat

Prevention Award: Chief Inspector Steven Robinson

Specialist Capabilities Award: Detective Constable Darren Devonport

Healthy Organisation Award – Innovation & Efficiency: Sharon Luther

Chief Constable’s Award: Clinical Psychologist Esther Ingham

Police & Crime Commissioner Special Recognition Award: Sharna Kennedy

The Police & Crime Commissioner’s Award: Nikki Swanson

Visit the Merseyside Police website here.

Read more about Merseyside Police’s fight against hate crime here.