Duo the ‘epitome of what makes a PCSO’

Wath-based PCSOs Dave Wright and Paul Gray pioneered the use of electric bikes as part of their efforts to improve their communities.

They run a “mini police” scheme in schools, deliver presentations on the likes of water safety and hate crime and volunteer for the Crucial Crew education workshops at Lifewise.

Claire France, a project officer at the Hellaby centre, said: “Dave and Paul are both the epitome of what makes a PCSO.

“They easily adapt to whatever situation is presented to them. The pride they take in delivering Crucial Crew is evident and feedback from schools has always been great.”

Cllr Alan Atkin, Wath ward for RMBC, added: “I have worked with them for many years. Nothing is too much, and Wath is a better place because of their work.”

Stuart Vintin — special constable of the year — is 14 years into his volunteer role and now mentors others taking on the same challenge.

Special Inspector Stephen Hepworth said: “He has always endeavoured to make himself available to work with officers who need his assistance at times convenient for them to give them the best chance of gaining the skills they need.

“It is no exaggeration to say that most of these young officers gained all the competence in roads policing needed to progress to designated patrol status through working with Stuart.

“Despite his status as an unpaid officer, Stuart is a consummate professional who regularly puts the needs of his colleagues and the public of South Yorkshire above his own.”