PCC recognises outstanding contributions to community safety at Wiltshire Police Force Awards Ceremony

Public service and community commitment were formally recognised yesterday as Police and Crime Commissioner Philip Wilkinson presented three awards at the Wiltshire Police Force Awards.

This year’s ceremony marked a special milestone with the introduction of the PCC’s new Excellence in Service Award, created to recognise exceptional, long-term contributions to policing and public safety. 

The PCC praised all recipients for their honourable commitment, humanity and professionalism, highlighting the strength they bring to Wiltshire’s communities. 

The first ever Excellence in Service Award was presented to Paul Sunners for his transformative leadership of Neighbourhood Watch. Over nearly a decade, Paul has helped grow the network to 734 approved schemes, strengthened partnership working with Wiltshire Police and championed crime prevention at a local level. His efforts to improve community engagement, support residents and tackle anti-social behaviour have left a lasting legacy of safer, more connected neighbourhoods. 

Wiltshire Search and Rescue (WILSAR) received the Volunteer of the Year Award in recognition of 25 years of exceptional, entirely volunteer-led service. Its 114 members contributed over 26,000 hours in 2024, providing critical support in locating missing and vulnerable people through specialist capabilities such as search dogs, drones and water and rope rescue teams. WILSAR’s professionalism, compassion and partnership with Wiltshire Police have made the organisation indispensable to public safety.

Special Constable Nick Tremblin was awarded Special Constable of the Year for his extraordinary dedication since joining in 2022. Volunteering for up to 90% of shifts with Swindon Team 2 Response, he has strengthened community trust through his five-language fluency and shown courage in demanding situations, including arresting a dangerous offender and helping save the life of a diabetic patient.

Speaking after the ceremony, Mr Wilkinson said: “What we have recognised today reflects the strength and commitment that exists across Wiltshire.  

“Paul, the WILSAR team and Nick each demonstrate the value of partnership, professionalism and public service. Their contributions make a real and practical difference to the safety and confidence of our communities, and it is important that we acknowledge the impact of that work.

“I am grateful for everything they do to support policing and the people of Wiltshire.”