Reading Thames Valley Police officers praised for charges

The Reading section of Thames Valley Police supported victims of sexual offences and rape and increased the outcomes for these offences.

At an awards ceremony on Monday, June 20, Chief Constable John Campbell issued several commendations to local officers.

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Reading CID was commended for its work in 2020/2021 which saw several high-profile stabbings and attempted murders, as well as the Forbury Gardens terror attack.

Eighteen long service awards were presented, including a five years service award to volunteer Wendy Taylor, a nine years service award to Special Sergeant Morgan Butler, and 16 awards for 20 years’ service were given to officers and staff from across the force.

Awards being handed out a the TVP ceremony on June 20

Commander Nick John, of the Metropolitan Police Service and formerly LPA commander for Reading, nominated the CID team for the award.

“While it can be difficult at times to single out staff or teams at a time when so many have performed above what is expected, my view is that the CID team in particular has really shone while under constant, intense pressure,” he said.

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Detective Chief Inspector Dave Turton, of Reading CID, said: “When teams deliver a consistently exceptional performance over a sustained period of time, they should be recognised.

“This award for the team has been really well received by all staff and sends a clear message across the organisation that we value our staff and appreciate the hard work they put in on a daily basis.”

Detective Sergeant Lara Pinder, also of Reading CID, said: “It's a rewarding feeling to know that all our hard work during what was an exceptionally busy and relentless period on Reading CID has been recognised.”