By Leicester Mercury | Posted 28 August, 2014
Leicestershire's chief constable has honoured his bravest, most dedicated and longest-serving officers and staff.
Simon Cole hosted the force's annual two-day awards ceremony on Monday and yesterday at force headquarters in Enderby.
Among the awards was the official handing over of the title of Leicestershire Beat Officer of the Year to Pc Neil Whittle, who covers the Saffron Lane area of the city.
Pc Whittle, who joined the force in 2000, has been honoured particularly for his work with troubled youngsters on the estate.
In the two years he has covered the patch, he has established strong links with the area's schools and worked to steer young people away from crime and anti-social behaviour.
The officer, who is also helping youngsters on the beat learn angling skills, said: "I love working in this area and wouldn't swap it for any other."
Pc Whittle, who succeeded previous winner Belgrave's Pc Laura Nutt received the Guy Swatland Memorial Shield – named in memory of the fellow Welford Road officer and former beat bobby of the year who died in a road collision while cycling in the countryside in June 2009.
He was also be presented with a crystal rose bowl, a signed certificate and a personal cheque for £250 from Chief Constable Simon Cole.
He said he was going to donate the £250 to LOROS, a charity "very close" to his heart.
"Having previous involvement concerning one of my family members last year, I would like to say a big thank-you to LOROS and also to those who took the time to nominate me," he said.
Adrian Walker, Senior Fundraiser at LOROS said, "We would like to thank PC Neil Whittle for donating his award to LOROS; it was very kind of him to think of us.
"The money will help us to continue providing free, high-quality, compassionate care and support to terminally ill adult patients, their family and carers."
