Exemplary service and dedication to duty: 20 honoured by Chief Constable

Three dedicated Durham Constabulary colleagues with more than 100 years’ service between them have been honoured by the force.

Karen Bromley, Helen Pickering and Gillian Bartlett, were among 20 police officers and staff honoured at a special ceremony hosted by Chief Constable Rachel Bacon last week.

All attendees were invited to the special evening with their families to recognise their long service and good conduct, with each recipient having been in policing at least 20 years.

But Mrs Bartlett has served double that time, having 40 years’ experience with the force.

Mrs Bartlett began her policing career in April 1982 in the filing and post department before being made an accounts manager in 1993.

When she started, everything was recorded manually in ledgers but the real tests have been helping recover cash from criminals – once even having to sift through cash that had been dowsed in Coca Cola and talcum powder in an attempt to throw off police dogs – it didn’t work.

Mrs Bromley and Mrs Pickering have each served at least 30 years. Mrs Bromley began her career in 1993 and worked her way up to support manager while Mrs Pickering began as a police officer and is now PA to the PCC.

The ceremony, held at the Durham Centre, was attended by Vice Lord Lieutenant, Michael Poole and Police and Crime Commissioner Joy Allen.

Speaking on the night, CC Bacon praised the recipients and paid special recognition to their families who have supported them throughout.

She said: “It genuinely is an absolute honour and a privilege for us to celebrate your remarkable service, which has been marked by professional integrity and dedication to duty. In the face of countless challenges and changing landscape you have never wavered.

“All of you have contributed to the strength and reputation of our force. I know many of you are role models within the organisation due to your hard work, dedication and exemplary conduct.

“Thank you for your service, for your sacrifice and your commitment to protect our county. We are proud of you.”

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