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“My Grandad was my hero. He had a remarkable career with Durham Constabulary, becoming Deputy Chief Constable and receiving both an OBE and the Queen’s Police Medal. It’s something I’m incredibly proud of,” he said.

 

Following in his footsteps, Simon joined Durham Constabulary in 2002. Starting on response in Crook, he was guided by a team of brilliant officers and a Sergeant who continues to inspire him today.

 

Since then, Simon’s career has taken him through armed response, traffic, and the Force Control Room as a Force Incident Manager and Tactical Firearms Commander. Today, he’s the Neighbourhood Inspector for Chester-le-Street.

 

“I supervise two teams who look after our local community, tackling issues like retail crime and anti-social behaviour. It’s so rewarding to see real problem solving improve people’s quality of life,” he added.

 

His journey includes some extraordinary moments, from leading Durham officers providing mutual aid at the G7 Summit in Cornwall, with world leaders like the Prime Minister and the President of the United States attending, to winning a National Bravery Award alongside armed response colleagues for safely resolving an incident with an armed man in crisis.

 

He’s also seen the toughest days on the job, like being first on scene at a tragic crash last year on the A1M which took the lives of baby Zackary Blades and his aunt Karlene Warner.

 

“It stays with you, but support from colleagues gets you through. That’s why honesty, hard work, and thinking outside the box are so important – to deliver the best for our communities, even in the hardest moments.”

 

Simon encourages anyone thinking about joining to simply reach out.

“Pop down to your local station and have a chat with some of the officers. We’ll be happy to see you and help you on your journey.”

 

PC recruitment is open until Friday, July 25.