THREE members of Peterlee’s neighbourhood policing team have received awards recognising their commitment to their role.

PCSO Vikki Gill was nominated by a resident in Horden for a Wow award in recognition of her actions after discovering a gas leak within a property. She evacuated residents from the area, including the elderly and an liaised with emergency services who made the property safe.

Sgt Jim Peel and PCSO Ian Goodwin were recognised for their work in planning the policing operation for the funeral of Bradley Lowery, in Blackhall.

Inspector Lee Blakelock said: “ I am so proud of our officers who do a fantastic job and are dedicated to serving the community sometimes in the most difficult of circumstances.

“These awards recognise that customer focus and whether we are evacuating people from danger or helping them in their moment of need they are proud to be part of the police family to offer that support.”