Praise for police hurt in M5 wrong way car stop

More than 45 people were nominated by colleagues or members of the community, the force said

Two police officers who were hurt when they used their own car to stop a vehicle driving the wrong way on the M5 have been recognised for their bravery.

PC Kully Singh and PC Stacey Hegenbarth received the bravery award in West Mercia Police's Quality Policing Awards.

On 30 July, after more than 20 people called police about a vehicle driving the wrong way towards stationary traffic, they decided to take action.

The pair suffered whiplash, concussion and bruising in the crash and the force added: "Their courage holds no bounds and their actions, without a doubt, saved many innocent lives."

Police officers, staff and volunteers who have made a difference were recognised across Herefordshire, Shropshire and Worcestershire on Friday.

West Mercia Police said more than 45 people were nominated by colleagues or members of the community.

'Selfless acts celebrated'

The community thank you award went to Shanzy and Nathan Palmer along with Dr Mohammed Waheed.

They were at an activity centre in August when a 14-year-old suffered what the force called a breakdown and tried to stab people around him.

Shanzy, also a child, tackled him, managed to remove the knife and was joined by the other two who helped restrain the boy, they added.

Elsewhere, PC Russ Bunce, who ran a charity golf tournament in memory of PC Andy Boardman, who died on duty in Shropshire in 2023, was named police officer of the year, after a force spokesperson said he went above and beyond to help others.

Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) John Campion presented the victims' champion award to Det Con Becky Jasper who led an attempted murder investigation in Telford.

Det Con Jasper visited the hospital, provided specialist domestic abuse support and made sure the victim's voice was heard throughout, he said.

Temporary Chief Constable Richard Cooper said there were "remarkable examples of outstanding bravery, inspirational leadership and compassionate support to victims".

The PCC said he was proud to recognise and celebrate the selfless acts of ordinary men and women in the force.