Praise for officer retiring after 30-year career

Dave Cruxton served as a mounted officer at the beginning of his career

A police officer has been honoured by colleagues as he retires after more than three decades of service.

Sgt Dave Cruxton began his involvement with the Staffordshire force in 1986 as a cadet and joined the mounted branch, patrolling on horseback, soon after.

A spokesperson for Staffordshire Police said Mr Cruxton had taken on various roles over the years - including response officer, wildlife crime officer and road policing.

"His love of nature made him an ideal fit for tackling wildlife crime and his passion for road safety was evident in his work with the unit," they said.

In 2018, he joined the county's newly-formed road policing unit, where he served as a PC and later as an acting sergeant.

He then went on to become a sergeant at Longton and the Staffordshire Moorlands.

Mr Cruxton has served in a number of different roles for Staffordshire Police

Ch Insp Scott McGrath, head of Staffordshire Police's road crime team, said: "As he steps into retirement, he leaves behind a legacy of dedication, versatility and a passion for making a difference.

"His colleagues and the community will undoubtedly miss his presence, but his impact will be felt for years to come."

More recently, Mr Cruxton has been training frontline officers and enhancing investigations into road incidents.

Mr Cruxton's duties have seen him visit Downing Street with colleagues

He has also been an active member of the force's off-road motorbike team in north Staffordshire and has supported VIP escort duties and wide load operations.

In addition, Mr Cruxton teaches motorbike safety and volunteers with Stoke-on-Trent City Council's Young Riders Pre-CBT scheme.

Mr McGrath added: "Dave's passion for teaching and mentoring, whether through BikeSafe or the Young Riders Pre-CBT scheme, highlights his commitment to safety and education."

Mr Cruxton is due to retire on 7 February, which is also his birthday.