On Thursday, 13 October 2022, a group of Dyfed-Powys Police cadets from South Pembrokeshire won a prestigious Lord Ferrers Award, with Miss Meinir Loader, a police chaplain from Ammanford, receiving a principal runner-up honour.
At the awards ceremony, held at Lancaster House, London, Sir Martyn Lewis, CBE, a Swansea-born journalist, and newscaster knighted for his work in the voluntary and charitable sectors, presented the awards which recognise the outstanding contribution made by Volunteer Police Cadets (VPC), the Special Constabulary, and support volunteers from across the policing sector.
With 11 award categories in total, the South Pembrokeshire Volunteer Police Cadets claimed top prize in the Volunteer Police Cadet Team category, which recognises cadet units who work together to make a significant and sustained contribution to ‘youth led social action’ that supports policing and their communities.
South Pembrokeshire’s Neighbourhood Policing Sergeant, Stuart Wheeler, who nominated the young volunteers said: “The cadets have worked tirelessly for the community during the covid pandemic and beyond.
“They continue to represent Dyfed-Powys Police at events and support their local areas, and it is fantastic that they have been recognised for their efforts and commitment.”
Simon Gough, Madeleine James, Gabrielle Davis, Ella Thomas, and Oliver Monk received their award, while the VPC leaders proudly looked on.
One of those leaders, PCSO Andrew Griffiths said: “It is a great achievement and indeed a huge honour for the South Pembrokeshire Volunteer Police Cadet Unit to have been nominated for the Lord Ferrers Award.
“Though only a few cadets could attend the ceremony, the hard work has been carried out by every single member of the unit. Their dedication towards community projects and events is second to none and as the cadet unit leader, I am extremely proud of our cadets and my fellow leaders. “
In the Police Support Volunteer solo category, Miss Meinir Loader was named the principal runner-up for her work as a Chaplain at Ammanford Police Station in Carmarthenshire.
Out of 170 nominations, the former teacher came second in her category, owing to her total dedication to her role, and the exceptional care she has shown to the officers and staff. She was particularly noted for her skill in offering support in times of great distress, such as around bereavement and suicide.
The Rt Hon. Jeremy Quin MP, Minister of State for Crime, Policing and Fire, said: “Volunteers are a precious part of our policing family and it’s very humbling to know that there are so many people who are willing to give up their time to help protect their fellow citizens.
“It is a huge privilege to be here, to recognize what is a tremendous endeavour right across our country…Thank you so much for doing what you do!”
Feeling inspired? Click the link to find out more on Dyfed-Powys Police’s Volunteer schemes.
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