Cleveland Police Celebrate Prestigious National Award

Cleveland Police have been recognised at a national level, scooping the Force of the Year Award at the prestigious Emergency Services Awards.

The Force beat off competition from Hertfordshire Constabulary, Lancashire Constabulary, Northumbria Police and Surrey Police, to take the title. Cleveland was also short listed for Best Control Room along with the East of England Ambulance Service and Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service. The Force lost out to London Ambulance Service.

The awards engage with organisations and individual projects across the Police, Fire and Ambulance sectors, and recognise outstanding achievement by teams working to deliver effective and innovative public services.

The event is supported by the Association of Police Authorities, the Ambulance Service Network, and the British Fire Services Association and took place at the Emirates Stadium London.

Chief Constable of Cleveland Police Sean Price said: "I'm delighted that Cleveland has won the Force of the Year award. It's an honour to be recognised for the work we do at a national level. I would personally like to thank all our officers, staff, and staff in our partnership who have worked so hard along with our communities and partners.

"As a result of Putting People First, we are seeing our lowest ever levels of recorded crime and high levels of public confidence. I do not underestimate the challenges we face in the coming months of maintaining this momentum, but I am fully committed to protecting the frontline so we can deliver the best possible service we can to the people of Cleveland."

Added Police Authority Chair Dave McLuckie: "I am delighted that the hard work done by everyone connected to Cleveland Police has been recognised with this major award. Six years ago we finished last - 43rd out of 43 - that was a disgrace and we were determined to improve. Through the hard work, determination and commitment of everyone, especially the front line staff, we are now the best in the country. We don't intend to rest on our laurels though, we intend to keep seeking improvements in order to make sure the people of Teesside get the very best force we can provide."