Bravery on Dartmoor recognised as Plymouth police honour lifesaving officers

Police officers involved in a dramatic Dartmoor emergency were among those honoured at a special awards ceremony in Plymouth.

The event, held earlier this month, celebrated 62 nominees for their work in areas including courage, leadership, professionalism and teamwork. 

Plymouth Police Commander Chief Superintendent Matt Longman said the event “reminds us of the incredible work that takes place across Devon & Cornwall Police and equally of how amazing the public can be alongside us”.

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Among the recipients were PC Laura Toms and PC Ben Wilson, who showed exceptional bravery after rescuing a man who had entered the water at Burrator Reservoir on Dartmoor.

The officers found him waist-deep in freezing water and managed to pull him to safety, putting themselves at risk to protect a vulnerable member of the public.

ABOVE: Burrator Reservoir, where the rescue took place (Image: Jamie Townsend)

Another incident recognised involved PC George Kinloch and PC Ben Wood, who saved a man’s life after responding to a distress call while returning from a marine deployment near Mount Batten.

They used their dive medic training to create an airway, deliver first aid and use a defibrillator before the man was taken to hospital. He has since fully recovered.

Chief Supt Longman said officers’ actions were a source of pride for the force and their families:

“We’re so proud of all those we recognised and enjoyed meeting their families and friends who have supported them.”

The event was also attended by the High Sheriff of Devon, Caroline Harlow, and the Lord Mayor of Plymouth, Kathy Watkin.

The High Sheriff said:

“It was a truly wonderful afternoon and to witness the courage, bravery and commitment of the public and police was heart-warming and inspiring. Each person and team I spoke to denied they had done anything extraordinary; they all declared that what they did is just what you do.”

The ceremony highlighted the work of officers serving communities across Plymouth, Dartmoor and the wider region, many of whom were recognised for actions carried out in difficult or dangerous circumstances.