FIREARMS officers who were first on the scene of the murder of Sir Richard Sutton, in north Dorset, were among those honoured at Dorset Police’s latest awards ceremony.

The event, held at the Vitality Stadium in Bournemouth, acknowledged their ‘selfless actions’ in entering the premises and carrying out ‘lifesaving treatment’ at the scene of Sir Richard's partner, who was critically injured.

The officers received a Chief Constable's Commendation for their actions on April 7, 2021.

Also recognised were, husband and wife, Charles and Saffron Willis-Owen, along with Dorset Police Community Support Officer Pete Raymond, who were presented with a Royal Humane Society Award for their efforts in saving a fellow Dorset Police employee after he suffered a medical episode in Poole on May 7, 2020.

PCSO Raymond  carried out lifesaving first aid, before he was joined by Charles, an off-duty hospital consultant, and Saffron. The trio, supported by an off-duty nurse and former police officer, called for help and continued to carry out CPR until the emergency services arrived. The casualty was taken to hospital for treatment and returned to work a year after the initial incident.

The two officers, the community nurse and the former police officer were also awarded by the Royal Humane Society and have either already received their awards or will be awarded them at a later date.

A Chief Constable’s Commendation was awarded to Detective Inspector Stef Belton for the development and delivery of forcewide Rape and Serious Sexual Offences training.

Other commendations were given to a range of officers and staff, including to former Detective Inspector Dawn Barrett and Yvonne Surman, who successfully delivered a project that opened up communication between the police service, schools and social services to highlight those children exposed to domestic abuse so the right support and safeguarding could be provided.

A number of Long Service and Good Conduct Medals were presented, including to Darren Thomas, Chief Superintendent Gavin Dudfield and Superintendent Lindsay Dudfield.

Chief Constable’s Commendation and Crown Court Commendations werehanded to the investigation teams and wider teams who dealt with a child destruction, GBH and ABH case, and the murder inquiry relating to Sir Richard Sutton.

Chief Constable Scott Chilton said: “I am incredibly proud of the dedication and professionalism of our officers and staff, who day in day out risk their own safety to relentlessly pursue criminals and keep the public safe.

“The commitment demonstrated throughout the careers of all those acknowledged is outstanding and ceremonies such as this are an excellent way for us to thank them for their dedication and helping to make Dorset a safe county for everyone.

“I was delighted to share this moment with those honoured at the awards ceremony and their family and friends.”