Nomination submitted on behalf of Mr Richard Alderson. We have recently been encountering problems with quad bikes, drug dealing in our area and PCSO Atkinson is regularly on his beat and is very helpful and approachable. He has managed the problems and put measures in place to control the problems making the srea a much better place to live. first class job - well done

Nomination submitted on behalf of Mr Reilly. I recently had cause to attend Consett Police Station to seek advice in relation to an incident that I had reported. Denise Callaghan, the Front Counter Clerk was most courteous and very helpful, a credit to your police service. Arrangements were made for an officer to attend my home address and he acted very promtly and professionally when dealing with the incident. I would just like to say a big thank you to both of them

Came to my rescue when I had a flat tyre Helpful, cheery when I faced disaster! Pro-active, totally the focused hands on help needed. A huge Thankyou .

For helping keep us safe. PC Stainthorpe came to the rescue when my daughter and I ran out of fuel on a very dark area of road over Bishop viaduct. He took us to get fuel then on our way back a drink driver was on our side of the the road and nearly went into us. (PC Stainthorpe had just been saying to us not to stay in the car if we breakdown just in case of drink drivers etc)Procedure was followed and the driver was stopped. On getting back to the car it wouldnt start..... battery flat!!! Again he helped by getting some jump leads. Another officer came who helped too. They stayed with us until the car got started and we were safely on our way; all in all it was about two hours. WE OWE HIM A VERY BIG THANK YOU, HE REALLY DESERVES THIS NOMINTAION FOR HIS CARE, UNDERSTANDING AND KEEPING US SAFE.

These two officers for the last three years have had children from Red Rose school join them and residents on a Speed Watch during road safety week. This year Brake launched its campain for road safety at this school. It got great publcity from all the press which is down to these two officers getting children and residents working together for road safety. They go out of their way to involve everyone, to work together for a safer town including cutting crime as well. They deserve full praise.

I have just had my faith restored in Durham Constabulary today! I witnessed an incident today whereby PC Mike Fisher and his partner PC Gary Ward, chased a number of motor/trials bikes (travelling in excess of 60mph) along a disused railway line/public walkway and cycle path between Seaton Village and Ryhope today. Thankfully Mike and Gary were able to apprehed four of the culprits and take them to task. What a wonderful piece of policing - well done the boys in blue ... well actually they were in black leathers but it sounded better. Keep up the good work. PC Ward rang me up later that day to see if I was OK after what had happened - nice to see that they care for members of the public.

Me and my family would like to nominate PC Lorraine Nelson for a wow award. We had trouble with an uncontrolled dog in Fishburn nearly 2 months ago, this same dog then came on to our property and savaged our kitten so badly we had to get him put to sleep. We were originally told that nothing could be done about this dog being out of control but it turns out that wasnt the case. PC Nelson has taken on this case for us and we are so pleased; Lorraine has restored our faith in the police service making us think that there is still some justice if you get the right police officer dealing with your case. Lorraine has been excellent and very professional and compasionate and even if we dont get the result we are hoping for we know that Lorraine has done everything in her power to help us. My family would like nothing better than to have Lorraine look after Fishburn village as we and Im sure most of the people who live in this village and know her would agree that PC Nelson is the best PC for the job. A big big thank you PC Lorraine Nelson from all the family

On Sunday, 4th November, 2012, my wife and I were walking in Auckland park when we got lost in dense fog. Not knowing the area we soon got lost and rang 999 for help straight away and were reassured that the police were on the way. The three officers, Sgt Brown PC Walker and PC Denham worked hard to find us in awful conditions; Sgt Brown kept in touch with me asking if we were ok and not to worry. After about an hour they found us; checked if we were ok and drove us back to our car - we cant thank them enough

I wish to nominate the above Police Constables. They came to my rescue when my car broke down on 15th Oct 2012 on a very dark road. I was also on a bend. They tried to move my car, but as Id parked in the P position, this was not possible.. They stayed with me and my two female passengers until the AA arrived... They were both very much appreciated.

I nominate this officer for the professionalism and respect in which she dealt my daughter in relation to an alleged assault. Until this time I would never have entrusted the police with being able to keep an impartial view on things. She has given myself and my family faith in the police and would have no hesitation in contacting yourselves if I or my family had a problem in the future. This constable is a credit to the force, and if there were more PCs like her the world would be a better place. She was understanding and did not pass judgement until she had heard all of the facts to the case

Ellis has completely changed our lives. We moved into the area two years ago and we soon discovered we had a very problematic neighbour. She would should abuse and frighten my children. Ellis was amazing he spoke to the neighbours and since then the verbal abuse has completely stopped. We were at the point of selling up and moving from a village we loved. We really cannot thank him enough.

I wish to nominate the officer that visited me on Friday the 26/10/12. He had to inform me that the child we are looking after on behalf of the local authority had been taken to hospital after being found drunk in the street. His manner and attitude were excellent. He displayed a true caring attitude.This officer is a credit to your force.

I would just like to bring it to your attention the good work from the following officers ............. PC 1861 Andrew Froggatt... PCSO 7182 Julie brown I have been a resident of Ebchester for over 40 years and I attend the local PACT meetings. During the last 1-2 years the village has experienced a number of problems that I feel the above two officers have solved and made the residents far more confident in the polices willingness to support our communities. One example of their good work is an issue that involved a safety/traffic issue. The A694 road is extremely busy and a number of accidents have occurred ove rthe recent years. A problem was traffic travelling at 60mph through what is a small village - East law. It was discussed in the PACT meetings that a 40mph limit should be put in force on this particular stretch of road. This problem has now been aleviated and the 40mph signs are now in place. A further example of good work is a problem the residents of a cul de sac had. This involved a family who were disruptive using inappropriate behaviour and words outside and not only was this offensive to soome residents it may have put the elderly residents in fear. The disruptive family in question have now been moved out of the village and feel that problems that are being raised at the PACT meetings are being taken seriously and although I appreciate not all issues can be resolved to everyones satisfaction on this occassion I feel we are being listened to and heard due to the actions being taken. Id be grateful if my feelings are passed to the relevant officers and that I can confidently say I speak on behalf of all the residents that raised these issues too.

I wish to nominate PCSO Vanessa Gray for her interaction with the young members of our community. She regularly calls in to our local youth club and engages with the members. She allows the youngsters to try on her hat etc and by breaking down barriers, provides an excellent link between the police and the community.

At my previous address, I suffered over 7 years of anti social behaviour. Loud music was played at all hours of the day and night and I was spat at in the street. I was very low. Two and a half years of effort by Richard has resulted in a house move to a new address. He has been a very calming influence and provided much support, even writing a letter to the Housing Association to support my house move. During the period, he called weekly to give support and advice. Even after my move, Richard still maintains regular contact. " Richard has made a huge difference to my life".

I was a victim of a sustained hate campaign, suffering verbal abuse, windows broken at my home and physical assaults. Neil became involved and he arranged for alarms to be fitted at my home. He assisted in helping me to find alternative accommodation with the council. Even though I have moved to a new location, Neil has stayed in touch and continues to be very supportive. He even helped me to make introductions to new people in the area.

Nomination submitted on behalf of Mrs CavanaghOn 14th September, 2012, Sgt Ian Scott and PC Louise Burgess visited my house which subsequently led to my husband being admitted to hospital. I would just like to thank the officers for their support and calm helpful manner at such a difficult time. This will will always be remembered with gratitude by myself and my family. thank you so much.

Nomination submitted on behalf of Mr & Mrs Archbold.On 28th September, 2012, our car caught fire near a school. PC Paul Bruce and PC Christopher Jackson managed to push the car away from the school thus preventing any harm being caused to passers-by and pupils. They then went that one step further by not only transporting us home safely but also carrying large items of equipment that we had recently bought, into our house. We would just like to say a big thank you by nominating them for a WOW award.

Yesterday, one of the County Court Bailiffs attended a property in Sacriston to carry out an eviction. There were several occupants, all heavily intoxicated and the Bailiff became fearful for his own safety. The Police were called and PCs Hall, McVay and Cooper attended promptly and the matter did not escalate thanks to the Police. Our Bailiffs face many difficult situations during their work and Police assistance is not often requested, but it is reassuring to know that Durham Constabulary never fail to respond and it is greatly appreciated by the Bailiffs.

I would like to nominate Sgt Dave Kirton, PC Julian Brown and PSCO Steve Dolby for a WOW award for their commitment and determination to improve the way in which people with mental health problems in Darlington are helped to receive the best care possible. By being willing to work collaboratively with staff from the local Mental Health Trust (TEWV) they have been able to identify ways to reduce unnecessary police work at West Park Hospital. They have achieved this with an amazing 75% reduction in calls freeing up resources and time whilst improving the quality of the interactions they have with our service users by adopting an inclusive, person centred model of integrated working with our crisis, community and in patient teams. Their positivity, openness and willingness to consider new ways of working is a credit to the communities they serve. We look forward to a long and fruitful working relationship

I’d just like to say how very impressed I was by the visit we received from PC Walton last Wednesday (10th October) and the way he dealt with an incident we reported. Some youths had pulled down the fence in our back garden during the night, and although the incident had been very upsetting for us, I was reluctant to report it as I thought this would be a very inconsequential matter for the police and didn’t expect anyone to give us the time of day. But I couldn’t have been more wrong. PC Walton made an appointment and came and visited us in person, examined the damage caused, and seemed genuinely concerned about it. He sympathised with our feelings, and spent time gathering as much information as possible about the incident. He explained what would happen clearly, and organised for the local beat team to make some house-to-house enquiries to see if the culprits could be identified. Our kids were also excited and impressed to have a police officer in the house, and again he took the time to engage with them and left them with a very positive impression of the police. I was left feeling quite stunned with the time and attention we were given, and for the genuine concern and respect that PC Walton demonstrated toward us, and the level of service we received which exceeded all expectations. I feel PC Walton is truly a credit to the force, and will certainly be letting others know about the excellent service we received from Durham Police.

Tony and Debbie approached Berghaus for a donation. Their powers of persuasion must have been exceptional as they received over 100 items of outdoor kit in response. They were determined to see the clothing make a real difference to homeless and vulnerable individuals and families in the area so in June they asked Foundation to help distribute the items. Our customers benefited from some fantastic new weatherproof kit thanks to Tony and Debbies vision and tenacity. We really feel they deserve recognition for their community spirit.

The police officer named was extremely pleasant and polite. He attended a car accident, in which he was efficient and helpful. I would like to nominate PC Charlton for a WOW Award as I think that he was excellent in the situation and brought myself and my pregnant wife home safely. He remained extremely professional through out the situation. MANY THANKS.

We had been experiencing youth nuisance problems at our home along with other residents, from the end of August and through September 2012. We reported the incidents to 101 on 30 September and 1 October. Amys very kind and caring approach, particularly towards my wife who had been most upset by the incidents, which included foul abuse to her, gave us the reassurance that something could be done to deal with the culprits. She visited us two or three times with updates and reassured us that action was being taken. On Tuesday 2 October Amy called and advised us that follow up had identified two main culprits who had confessed and that she had been given the names of the other youths who were involved. Since then we have had no further incidents. We are most grateful to Amy for her efforts on our behalf.

I lost my purse which was handed in and PCSO Hilton went out of his way to find a way of letting me know that my purse had been handed in. When I went to collect it he was a very nice person and think he definitely derserves a wow award. People are quick to judge when they have done something wrong but PCSO Hilton got it right and went out of his way

I would like to Nominate PC Andrew Bustin to receive a Wow Award. After a spate of vandalism against our business property, the young culprits were caught. Andy contacted us with the news and asked to discuss options further. Andy mentioned the restorative justice programme and we agreed this would be beneficial to both parties. Andys commitment to the youths involved and the efforts he went to try and arrange dates, personnel etc deserve recognition. His discussions and actions towards these children in showing them the results of their actions and offering them the time to rectify, were highly commendable. It was a pleasure to see a police officer go to these extraordinary lengths to help these children amend their ways. A very big well done from all at The Pet Crematorium Ltd.

I cannot praise PC Quarmby highly enough. I had been trying for about 4 weeks to get in touch with with my 87 year old brother who lived alone in Port Arlington, Australia. I do keep in touch on a regular basis and was becoming increasingly frantic and didnt know what to do. I decided to go to my local police station and asked if it was possible to find out where he was. PC Quarmby got in touch with Port Arlington Police and explained the situation and with their combined efforts managed to locate my brother who had been moved into a nursing home. Thanks to all their hard work, I was able to speak to my brother. I cannot thank PC Quarmby enough. She is a helpful and truly dedicated officer. I really feel as though Ive found a friend.

We suffered a shed burglary on August 14th 2012 where my wife disturbed the thief about 2am.Within minutes the officers from Darlington were on scene, the dog section arrived & recovered the stolen property & the police helicopter was also involved. The service we received was outstanding from all involved. The next morning the CSI was there by 9am and recovered some fingerprints. We were delighted by the response we received from all involved within Durham Constabulary. The reassurance we received from the attending officers was second to none. PC 2449 Paula Ruck, PC 2406 Simon Hopper, PC 1860 Jane Muir, PC 1729 Michael Nesbitt, PC 2624 Annabelle George, Insp Ian Blakemore, PC 1940 Catherine Davidson and Mr Christopher Mackintosh

Walking back to my car after the 20/20 match between England and South Africa at Chester Le Street on the 8th September my grandson aged 13 picked up a £50 note from the car park surface. With very little persuasion we agreed that he should hand it in to a policeman and we made our way back to the gate immediately behind the fitness center where we found a PC who with tremendous good grace took Zachary to one side and smilingly took his details. He was most impressed and I think surprised. Like an idiot I did not take her number and many of his friends and his sisters told him that he would hear no more,even if the note was not claimed, He phoned me last eveing to say that, on getting home from school he found a letter addressed to him from Durham Constabluary to say that the note was now his. That PC has won over a 13 year old who is telling all his friends at school what has happened. Of course she was only doing her job, and to my generation the outcome was as I would expect but her approach and the speed with which he received his letter has impressed me and wowed him. I do hope that you can track her down and if nothing else thank her from us both

I would like to nominate PCSO Neil Wilkinson for a WOW award for the service and help given to my wife and myself during a very testing time for us due to anti-social behavior of a neighbour.

During July and August, we experienced significant problems with anti-social behaviour from neighbours in our street.We attended PACT meetings and PCSO Richard Scott took charge of the situation. He provided regular weekly updates and maintained contact with us, providing support and reassurance. Our situation was finally resolved when the neighbours moved out of our street. Sincwe that date, Richard has still been in contact with us and more recently, has been very helpful and supportive with another situation that has arisen. We appreciate Richards hard work and support.

Me and my son wish to nominate PCSO David Gibson. We want to do this because he is very supportive with all the trouble we have and comes round on a regular basis to keep us up to date with all the developments that he has made.

Sergeant McGregor responded to an urgent call for help from Mr Cook, a County Court Bailiff working out of Durham County Court. Sgt McGregor attended a property in Sacriston on 13th September 2012 together with other officers, to assist with an eviction. Their rapid response and assistance with the situation prevented the matter escalating which would have placed the Bailiff in danger.

PC Graham responded to an urgent call for help from Mr Cook, a County Court Bailiff working out of Durham County Court. PC Graham, together with another officer, attended a property in Chester le Street, to assist with an eviction. Their rapid response and assistance prevented the matter escalating which would have placed the Bailiff in danger.

PC Brown responded to an urgent call for help from Mr Cook, a County Court Bailiff working out of Durham County Court. He attended a dwelling house with another officer to assist with an eviction. Their rapid response and assistance prevented the matter escalating which would have placed the Bailiff in danger.

Following an RTA we were involved in on Friday night Danny Fisher attended and was very kind, patient and understanding. However we feel that he showed exceptional service with regards to our 9 year old son who has autism. He quickly recognised the situation and communicated with him on a level he could understand, taking time to talk to him about being a police officer and answer all of his (very many) questions- even the bizarre ones. Despite losing his weekend break Olly was excited about his experience after Danny turned it into a more positive situation for him. All the while Danny continued to do his job liasing with your departments and our insurers. A very big thanks Danny!!!

I would like to nominate PCSO 7242 Michael Craine for a WOW award in recognition of his recent unstinting efforts and highly professional conduct in resolving serious issues brought about by a highly unstable, aggressive, intimidating and noisy neighbour. PCSO 7242 Micheal Craine, through constant and diligent attention to the matter and communication with the Landlord managed, after some months, to have evicted. Throughout the course of many disturbing events suffered by neighbors on both sides o PCSO 7242 Micheal Craine made himself and all possible resources available to us at all times, including daily drive-byes of Police vehicles, as well as making sure that following shifts at the Police Station were fully appraised of any possible quick reaction situations as they arose. This along with PCSO 7242 Micheal Craines constant telephone contact with myself and the other neighbours in which he reassured us of our protection and addressing any concerns in a polite, understanding and kind manner was both exceptionally professional and highly appreciated all round. In conclusion, PCSO Craine showed a highly efficient and professional aptitude for his position within the Police Force with a real concern for the welfare of all those concerned and we are all highly appreciative of PCSO Craines abilities and efforts which we feel are extremely worthy of recognition . And so we ask that PCSO 7242 Micheal Craine is awarded a WOW award in appreciation.

We are visiting from Dallas, Texas and had thought that Edmundbyers was a street in Consett. We searched the town and ended up at the library in search of help. As three charming librarians were trying to draw us a map, Officers Rogers and Egan came in and with a broad and welcoming smile said that they had come to take us to our destination. Apparently someone had alerted them that there were two clueless tourists wandering about town and so they came to find us. They pulled out ahead of us and so with police escort we were taken across the moors to the Punch Bowl Inn where we were to stay. This story has already gone halfway around the world with family in Cape Town, South Africa, Atlanta, Georgia and Dallas, Texas all saying WOW that really is service for you. We had been told to expect friendly people when we came up north in search of family roots. Officers Rogers and Egan exemplified that to perfection. Their broad smiles, warm and welcoming attitude, and their willingness to go the extra mile for us surely makes them prime candidates for a WOW award. We are deeply grateful to them for rescuing us.

Nomination submitted on behalf of Mrs Lee.I recently parked in a street (which was not a private road and had no yellow lines) and and went shopping. When I returned, I was confronted by an angry and threatening householder who was furious that I had parked in front of her home. very fearful, I contacted the Police who dealt with the incident with kindness, understanding and in a reassuring manner. I felt her attitude was was very professional and sympathetic. She was able to diffuse the situation and really listened. She made me feel that this was not a trivial matter and would be taken seriously.

Nomination submitted on behalf of Mr Armstrong.I was recently rushing to an appointment and left my keys in the lock of the boot. Fortunately for me, PCSO Carole Hutton saw them and left a note on my windscreen advising that the keys could be collected from my local police station.

Nomination submitted on behalf of Mr Scott.DC Neil Thompson recently investigated a burglary at our home. During the investigation, he made us feel secure by providing support and sympathy and communicating regarding the progress of the investigation. He went that one step further by providing advice on how to prevent a repetition of a similar crime.

I am the creator of a local motorcycle forum and was so impressed to see PCs Fisher and Bowman turn up at our meeting place and promote bikewise and give advice and tips to the group. So much so that I have noticed some of the group have posted in the bikewise guestbook. Since the retirement of our local Police Sergeant, we feel isolated and also tend not to got to north yorkshire area due to its heavy handed policing. We do however frequent the Dales and have formed links with bikewise. However these 2 officers went the extra mile that night turning up with 2 vehicles one a motorcycle and in weather that we would not ride in. They spoke to us which forged links and allowed some great photo opportunities; we all had a good night and they just joined in with some mickey taking aimed at them and kept slipping in little bits of advice and safety snipets. We all had a great time and it is so nice in times of austerity for a police force to still do sterling jobs of being community ambassadors

Many thanks to the officers for getting me my taxi fare (£23.00) back from a "runner". A small task but any thing that disrupts and dis-empowers petty criminals may have a big effect latter. Yours sincerelyAlan Clark Durham Taxi Hack 137

Nominated on behalf of Julie A at Fred Henderson. I wish to nominate PC Andy Parker and CSI Ian Rose for their investigation into an incident at our show room in Langley Moor. A car came off the road, mounted the pavement, crashed through a barrier and landed on top of four of our cars which were on the garage forecourt. The driver then fled the scene. PC Parker and CSI Rose were determined in their efforts to track down the person responsible and when we really thought that all was lost, we were informed that the driver had been apprehended. A receipt had been found in the car which was used to track the driver to a shop where he had made a purchase and using the CCTV officers were able to identify him.

I work at the Youth Village near Allensford. From 25th - 29th June 2012, we held a Festival Week for young people from primary and secondary schools from across the North East. A huge concern for us was the safe arrival and departure of the young people. PC Darren Rogers was an inspiring example of support and helfulness. He met us prior to the week and came up with an excellent plan which ensured the safety of the hundreds of young people who were travelling to and from the Youth Village. We were so grateful for the time and thought he put into this and for working with his colleagues to execute the proposal so wonderfully. Then on Thursday 28th June at about 4.00pm we were hit badly by the storm which caused such devestation all over our region. Knowing that we had 600 young people camping onsite, PC Rogers telephoned us to check that everyone was safe. We really appreciated his immediate concern and his reassurance in spite of the many calls on the police support that day. He then came down in person to check again that all was well. We feel that PC Rogers demonstrated great skill and support in looking after our arrivals and departures but were even more impressed and appreciative of his kindness and going the extra mile when we encountered the storm.

Adam was around our area informing people of local burglaries in the community. We spoke to him about having problems with our little boy Kevin. Adam came and spoke to Kev. He has also been around regularly to monitor Kevins behaviour.Though this monitoring Kevins behaviour has changed and he is now behaving himself more due to Adams help. He has helped our family move forward as has been a good role model to Kevin.

Right at the birth of the idea of an Olympics-themed festival for Great Lumley, Mark stepped up as a champion for the event. He declared his intention to be 100% behind the award from both a professional and personal standpoint.At a public meeting a few weeks later he stood up and declared his total support for the idea with conviction and enthusiasm. The decision to go ahead with Going for Gold Great Lumley Festival was based in no small measure on Marks impassioned presentation.He joined the organising committee and demonstrated that his commitment was much more than fine words. Little did he know, however, that a few weeks later he would be struck down by a heart attack. This took Mark out of the arrangements at a key time and we expected to hear nothing more from him for a long time.We were wrong. A few weeks later he was back - his enthusiasm undimmed. Much of the organisaion was well in hand but he had promised to help and he did. Wise advice, good contacts and promises of practical help were all forthcoming and he did not disappoint.At one point I was told (by others) that they could not see how he could attend the event over the weekend because of his rest day arrangements. Rest days or not he turned up as promised and gave fantastic support and encouragement.Mark went way beyond the call of duty for us simply because he believed this event would be good for the community. Im told there can be some cynicsm in the police force about the impact of events like Going for Gold. In this case the cynics would be wrong because the voice of the community would say otherwise. Going for Gold was a positive success in bringing diverse sections of the community together. Time (or the crime statistics) will tell but Great Lumley is much better for the personal and professional input of Mark Lumsden.I am delighted to nominate Mark for a WOW Award.

PCSO Heseltine attended our home as part of the response to an attempted break-in of one of our sheds on Tuesday 10th July 2012. She spent a considerable amount of time suggesting various ways of improving security around the property and was both knowledgeable and inovative with her suggestions. Her manner was professional yet friendly and as a result of her intervention we have already been able to impliment some of her ideas. My husband and myself felt this officer to be worthy of a commendation as she was so helpful throughout the investigation.

On Tuesday 10th July we were victims of an attempted break-in to one of our garden sheds. Various police officers attended our call for help at approximately 7.00.a.m. Following their intervention a youth was repremanded the following day. P.C. Garrett telephoned to give a very accurate and succinct account of what was to happen and proceeded to outline how we would be kept informed . He then rang after the week-end to give an update after the youth had been in front of the Magistrates. This is superb policing and my husband and myself would like to acknowledge our gratitude to this police officer for his professionalism in executing his role and put his name forward for commendation.

Submitted on behalf of Mrs Anne JonesI recently had the misfortune to be conned by a so called gardener who offered to maintain my garden but then made off with my money. DC Goad and DC Horner attended and were very supportive, considerate and understanding to the stress that this has caused me. I have nothing but respect and gratitude for both officers who are a credit to Durham Constabulary.