A POLICEMAN who tackled a crazed knifeman using a shopping basket has won a police award for his bravery.

As previously reported in the Journal, Police Community Support Officer (PCSO) Will Todd rescued several shoppers from the Co-Op in Shrewton when James Lewis attempted to rob the shop, brandishing a large kitchen knife.

Quick-thinking PSCO Todd risked his own safety to protect staff and his colleague until backup arrived an stunned Lewis with a Taser.

PCSO Todd, of Amesbury Neighbourhood Policing Team, won the Chief Constable’s certificate of commendation and merit.

Detective Sergeant Guy Williams of Salisbury CID won a long service and good conduct medal.

 

The awards were presented at a Wiltshire Police ceremony in Bradford on Avon last night (Thursday, Nov 19).

Twenty-nine officers and staff received awards from the Chief Constable Mike Veale, Vice Lord Lieutenant Lord Lansdowne, and High Sheriff Lady Gooch.

Mr Veale said: “The Force Awards are a fantastic opportunity to honour our colleagues for their outstanding service and selfless acts of bravery.

“As Chief Constable it is a great honour and I am immensely proud to be presenting awards to police officers and staff. We work with brilliant and talented people throughout the organisation and the award ceremony is a chance to recognise those individuals.

“I am proud that Wiltshire is one of the safest counties in the country. Many sacrifices, large and small, are made by officers and staff to make sure our county remains safe and last night recognised the quality, commitment, acts of bravery, teamwork, professionalism and dedication of those serving the public of Wiltshire.

“Thank you to all officers and staff for their continued hard work and thank you to the loyal and supportive families who make it happen.”