Women 'heroes' for rescuing stabbed police officer

Elizabeth Powell (centre left) was honoured with an award presented by Chief Constable Gavin Stephens (left), PC Hannah Conroy (centre right) and Gloucestershire PCC Chris Nelson

Two women who raced to help their neighbour who had been stabbed by an intruder have been honoured at the annual Police Public Bravery Awards.

Elizabeth Powell and Marion Balaam, both from Gloucestershire, were awarded a gold and silver medal respectively due to the help they provided to PC Hannah Conroy in May 2023.

The National Police Chiefs' Council award ceremony took place at Cutlers' Hall in Sheffield on 23 October.

Gloucestershire police officer Ms Conroy, who was the victim of a knife attack, said she would be "forever in awe" of the bravery and strength of Ms Powell and Ms Balaam.

"I have the honour and privilege to know two such wonderful women who have become lifelong friends," she said.

"If it wasn't for their quick-thinking and taking action, to put it simply, I would not be here now."

The award ceremony heard how a woman broke into Ms Conroy's home while she was sleeping.

The woman stabbed her with a knife, causing significant injuries.

The officer shouted for help and Ms Powell heard her pleas and banged on Ms Conroy's front door.

The victim was able to disarm her attacker and open the door, allowing Ms Powell to grab the attacker and pull her to the ground.

Ms Powell focused on keeping the attacker calm and away from Ms Conroy while she was on the phone to police.

Ms Balaam had also been woken by the commotion and she entered Ms Conroy's home without knowing what had happened and provided first aid.

When police attended they took over the first aid from Ms Balaam.

The bravery of Marion Balaam (centre left) was recognised at the award ceremony which was also attended by Sgt Emily Knightsmith (l), PC Hannah Conroy (centre right) and Gavin Stephens (r)

The offender was charged with attempted murder and possession of a knife.

After a trial, she was found not guilty by reason of insanity and she was given an indefinite hospital order.

Gloucestershire Police and Crime Commissioner Chris Nelson said Ms Powell and Ms Balaam's actions that night were "nothing short of heroic".

He added: "Our communities are a better place with people like Elizabeth and Marion."