Officer who confronted gunman given medal by King

The medal recognises Zach Printer's "selfless and brave" actions on 12 August 2021

A former Devon and Cornwall Police officer who confronted the gunman during the shootings in Keyham, Plymouth, in 2021 has received a bravery award from the King.

Zach Printer confronted gunman Jake Davison minutes after he had shot and killed five people on 12 August 2021.

At the time, he was on duty and unarmed with the force's Roads Policing Team - when he self-deployed to the incident.

Mr Printer was named on the monarch's first Civilian Gallantry List and was decorated with the King's Gallantry Medal (KGM) - awarded to civilians for acts of exemplary bravery - at Buckingham Palace on Wednesday.

'Extremely honoured'

Joined by his family, Mr Printer, 64, from Plymouth - who is a former Royal Marine - described being awarded the medal as a "humbling and memorable" experience.

The ceremony saw King Charles III speak with Mr Printer, his wife and three grown-up sons.

Mr Printer said: "It went very well and was an awesome experience.

"It was very humbling and a memorable day for my family. I'm immensely proud to have been part of it.

"I felt extremely honoured to have been presented the KGM by the King.

"The interest the King took in you as a person and in your family was really impressive."

'Selfless and brave'

Mr Printer said he explained to the King how he was thinking of his former colleagues, other first responders, and the roles they played on 12 August 2021 when he received the award.

He served as a police constable in Devon and Cornwall for more than 17 years, during which he worked as a response officer, firearms officer and roads policing officer.

He retired from front line duties in 2022 and now works as a Police Enquiry Officer at Crownhill Police Station.

The Cabinet Office's commendation stated: "PC Printer's selfless and brave actions confronting the assailant prevented further harm to members of the public."