STAFFORDSHIRE’S Police Federation boss has applauded the recognition of two officers from opposite ends of the spectrum in 2012’s New Year’s Honours.
Andy Adams, chair of the staff association for all p police constables, sergeants and inspectors, said the year had been an extraordinary one for the county’s police force, with unprecedented changes to policing methods, ideology, pension and pay reforms, reductions in police budgets and staffing numbers, a recruitment freeze and the introduction of a Police and Crime Commissioner all having a significant impact.
“Throughout this turmoil, Staffordshire Police officers and staff continued to provide a consistent, quality and professional service to the communities it serves,” said Mr Adams. “I personally applaud each and every one of them for their commitment and enthusiasm in the face of such enormous change.”
He said he was ‘extremely delighted’ Staffordshire Chief Constable Mike Cunningham and police constable Andy Whitehall had been formally recognised in the New Year’s Honours list with a QPM and an MBE respectively adding that both were thoroughly deserved.
“The honours recognise two officers from opposite ends of the force spectrum,” he said. “A police constable at one and a chief constable at the other, both of whom provide very different yet vital contributions at varying levels to policing in Staffordshire, ensuring that our communities receive the best value for money service possible.”
He said alongside the two officers honoured were hundred of other committed and dedicated men and women who formed part of the team that is Staffordshire Police.
“We should all take pride in their recognition as they are representative of us all,” said Mr Adams. “What a fantastic end to a year.”
Mr Adams said he wanted to formally congratulate both men.
“Their families must be extremely proud, as indeed am I, their colleagues in the Staffordshire policing family, and I'm sure, members of the Staffordshire public they swore an oath to serve and represent so well.”
