A POLICEMAN was honoured for his community work last week.
Sergeant David Somerville received a trophy from Deputy Mayor councillor Felicity Banks for his “unmatchable” record in helping his South Woodford community.
Helping to give the award at the unveiling of Ilford’s Redbridge Peace Monument, dedicated to knife crime victims, organiser Wilson Chowdhry said: “Sgt Somerville has worked tirelessly for the borough and his record was believed to be unmatchable.”
He has been involved in a raid on a cannabis factory in Chelmsford Road, South Woodford and introduced the Operation Payback Scheme to the borough, which utilises offenders on communtiy service to clear graffitti and improve derelict areas.
Sgt Somerville was also involved in a controversial operation where beggars in George Lane, South Woodford, were prosecuted by the Metropolitan Police. The operation split public opinion.
Redbridge Chief Inspector Bill Brame also received an award on behalf of the borough’s police for their conduct in the recent riots, in which they placed themselves in danger to protect others.
The event was held in conjunction with the redbridge Peace Concert, which was an all day event attended by around 3,000 people to speak out against violent crime.
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