THE home secretary has honoured a police volunteer from Stroud for transforming the way in which the Special Constabulary operates in Gloucestershire.

Special chief inspector Steven Lindsay MBE was honoured for his work at an awards ceremony in London.

SCI Lindsay, who was runner-up in the Ferrers Special Constabulary – Individual Award category, increased the amount of hours police volunteers work and bolstered engagement with the community.

He led the creation of a community harm hub, which addresses crimes of local importance as well as increasing patrols.

Home secretary Amber Rudd said:“The Lord Ferrers Awards celebrate the professionalism, dedication and sacrifice shown by Special Constables, police support volunteers and cadets.

“I am delighted to recognise Special Chief Inspector Steven Lindsay MBE for the vital contribution he has made to Gloucestershire Constabulary and the community in Stroud.

“I want to thank all the nominees for their commitment and drive and for making a real difference in the communities where they serve.”

SCI Lindsay said: “It was a bit of a shock but an honour to hear that a local parish councillor had taken the time to nominate me for an award, which I accept on behalf of all the Special Constables here in Gloucestershire.

“I’m very proud of the great team of officers that we have in the county who are dedicated to doing the best they can for our local communities.”

Five nominations were received from Gloucestershire Constabulary for the awards.

In total, police forces across England and Wales submitted 296 nominations, and forty-three exceptional candidates were shortlisted.

“As the awards ceremony has shown, volunteers bring diverse and valuable skills from outside police forces which complement the roles staff and officers play in delivering the best service to the public,” said Policing and Fire Service minister Brandon Lewis.

“Policing has a long and proud history of volunteering and I was delighted to hear of the inspirational work being carried out across England and Wales by all today’s nominees.”

The Lord Ferrers Awards recognise the outstanding contribution of special constables, police support volunteers and volunteer police cadets.

They also acknowledge the support employers and their employees offer their local force.

Nine winners and seven runners up were announced at the ceremony at Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors in London.

The Government is currently bringing forward legislation in the Policing and Crime Bill to transform the powers and roles of police staff and volunteers.

These reforms will, for the first time, enable volunteers to be given powers without becoming a special constable, and set out the core list of powers only available to a police officer holding the office of constable.