THE bravery of Norfolk police officers was hailed as “extraordinary” by the county's chief constable after he handed commendations to the force's finest.

THE bravery of Norfolk police officers was hailed as “extraordinary” by the county's chief constable after he handed commendations to the force's finest.

They include officers who have worked on some of the county's most high profile investigations, such as the murder of a security guard and the killing of a vulnerable sex worker. The list also includes those who risked their lives to save others.

A total of 23 officers, one member of the public and three rescue organisations were recognised at a special ceremony at Norwich's Great Hospital earlier this week.

Chief constable Ian McPherson said: “Such awards clearly demonstrate the bravery shown by Norfolk's police officers who sometimes have to take extraordinary actions in their everyday role as well as ensuring the public are kept safe from harm.

“I also commend those members of the community who have shown immense courage in the face of great danger.”

Those who received the chief's commendation were:

PC Leo Blyth, PC Travis Flannagan, PC Andrew Warnes and another anonymous officer who pursued and arrested the knife-wielding man who killed HMV security guard Paul Cavanagh in Norwich two years ago.

Norfolk Lowland Search and Rescue, Norfolk Civil Protection Volunteers and Rover Rescue.

PC Mark Grimmer who entered the River Yare at Gorleston to rescue a woman who had thrown herself into the water.

Insp Danny Kett and three other anonymous officers who saved the lives of a man and woman in imminent danger of being crushed between the wall and a ship in the River Yare.

Det Sgt Ian Fox who has worked tirelessly in the force's domestic abuse investigations unit for the past six years and has been instrumental in identifying the county's most vulnerable victims.

PC Matt Gates and PC Phil Higgins who dealt with a disturbed woman pointing a gun at their chests.

As well as commendations from the chief constable, other awards were given out to recognise the bravery and sacrifices of police officers and citizens.

Judge's commendations were given to PC Shaun Collingsworth; Det Con Adrian Greaves; Det Sgt Neil Stewart and Det Con Jeremy Simpson who helped crack the murder of Norwich prostitute Hayley Curtis after four years.

Royal Human Society awards went to PC Nigel Robinson, Sgt Andrew Hood, PC Ian Kennedy and PCSO Russell Oldham; Jason Woods.

HM Coroner's Commendations were given to Sgt John Tobin and PC Richard Doughty.

Special Chief Insp Massey Banks won the Jim Wilson Plate for the community police officer of the year for 39 years of service during which he has attended many significant incidents including one in which a man was gored to death by a bull and a fire in which a child died.