A POPULAR village bobby has been awarded a prestigious award for services to the community.
PC Lee Cullen, GMP’s Saddleworth South Neighbourhood Beat Officer, was recommended for the Above and Beyond award by appreciative villagers.
The coveted cut-glass award and commemorative certificate is presented to unsung heroes and heroines who have quietly gone the extra mile to help neighbours, friends or communities.
GMP’s district superintendent for Oldham, Daniel Ingles, said: “Lee exemplifies everything that can be achieved through effective neighbourhood policing.
“I have known Lee for many years and his passion, enthusiasm and dedication for his role has always shone through in everything he does.
“Whenever I come to see the team, I am always inspired by the work Lee does and I am extremely proud of him.”
Saddleworth Parish Council chairman Nicola Kirkham added: “Lee is a tremendous asset. He does a great job and along with our other officers and PCSOs works excellently to support the community.”
Before coming to Saddleworth, PC Cullen helped to set up Failsworth Youth Zone to tackle antisocial behaviour, for which he won a Chief Constable’s commendation.
PC Cullen said: “I really appreciate this Above and Beyond award — especially as it comes from the local community.
“I’ve been a police officer for more than 26 years and loved every minute of it and I intend to see my service out at Saddleworth, working in a community I hold very dear to my heart.”
• This year’s winners of the Above and Beyond Awards 2018 have now been selected and will be revealed over the coming year.
The award scheme is sponsored by Saddleworth and Lees District Executive and the panel is headed up by the executive’s chair, Cllr Adrian Alexander, supported by Saddleworth Parish councillors Pam Byrne and Nicola Kirkham and backed by Lisa Macdonald and Christine Wilson, District Partnership officers.
Do you know an unsung hero or heroine who goes above and beyond to help a neighbour or the community?
Send your choice of winner with a citation (no more than 350 words) and their contact details and they could be celebrated as a 2019 champion. Email: kd_bennett@yahoo.co.uk
