A POLICE officer who works in Thornbury has been awarded ‘Neighbourhood Beat Manager of the Year’ at this year’s annual Neighbourhood Policing Awards.

PC Natalie Draper received her award from the acting chief constable John Long after her nomination which said: “Natalie is very knowledgeable of the people and the area, working tirelessly to ensure there is a visible policing presence. She is a true ambassador for the police force.”

Speaking at the awards ceremony PC Draper said: “I feel ecstatic. I work with an outstanding team who are very supportive of each other in the work they do.”

Held on Thursday, November 13 in Congresbury, the awards are organised jointly by Avon and Somerset Police and Crime Commissioner Sue Mountstevens and Avon and Somerset Police and reward dedicated officers, staff and volunteers for their work.

Police and crime commissioner Sue Mountstevens said: “These awards are a chance for us to celebrate some of the most inspirational, selfless and dedicated people working in our communities.

“It’s particularly special for me because the nominations come from members of the public – residents who have taken the time to write in with compliments about the fantastic work of all our winners. To all of our winners this year I say well done.”

Acting chief constable John Long said: “The Neighbourhood Policing Awards provide a fantastic opportunity for local people to show their support and recognition for our officers, staff and volunteers.

“The standard of nominations this year made the judging process really tough as it is clear that the winners are very much part of the communities they serve.”

Earlier this year, members of the public were invited to nominate police officers, staff and volunteers who had gone above and beyond the call of duty, shown commitment or dedication or made a difference in their community.

Winners were chosen from seven categories for each policing area (Bristol, Somerset, and South Gloucestershire, Bath and North-East Somerset). All the winners were invited to the ceremony to be presented with their certificates and hear the announcement of the overall winner in each category.