Merton's Police Community Support Officer of the Year

Nicholas Smith from St Helier Ward has been named Merton's Police Community Support Officer (PCSO) of the year. The award was made by the Merton Community Policing Partnership (MCPP), the police engagement group for Merton, in recognition of Nick’s excellent work in crime prevention, tackling speeding and theft from motor vehicles and his work with children and young people in the ward.

Nicholas Smith with Andrew Wakefield, MCPP Chair and Chief Inspector Mark Lawrence

PCSOs John Bedford from Cannon Hill, Tracey Whayman from Cricket Green and Mike Kneller from Figges Marsh were all highly commended in the awards. In making the award, MCPP chair Andrew Wakefield described the award winners as providing "an excellent example of what Safer Neighbourhood Teams can achieve". Chief Inspector Mark Lawrence praised the work of the PCSOs in demonstrating the professionalism and diligence of local Safer Neighbourhood Teams.

The award was made at the MCPP's quarterly public meeting , which also looked in more detail at policing and crime in Merton, including the MCPP's work on engaging with young people. The next MCPP meeting will be held on Tuesday 21 September, 7.00pm at Merton Council Chamber.