PCSOs have been named top of the cops

SINCE Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs) were introduced in 2002, they have become a key cog in the mechanisms of crime fighting.

Often referred to as the "eyes and ears" of neighbourhood policing, they provide a link between the community and its police force, spending hours every day walking the beat.

These important staff are recognised every year in the Avon and Somerset Community Policing Awards.

Before Christmas, communities were asked to nominate their favourite beat managers, policing teams, PCSOs, special constables and civilian staff as part of the fourth annual Community Policing Awards.

A total of 669 nominations were received and the most popular category by far was PCSO of the Year, in which 345 nominations were received.

A judging panel has decided which men and women are top of the cops and the district winners of PCSO of the Year 2011 are Michelle Kennedy (Bristol); Paul Fortune (South Gloucestershire); Barrington Scott (B&NES); Gary Maule (Somerset East); Mark Leach (Somerset West) and Heather Searle (North Somerset).

PCSO of the year for Bristol was Michelle Kennedy, who used to cover Highridge and Bedminster Down, but now mainly patrols the Withywood beat.

The PCSO of three years said: "I'm very proud to have won – I was surprised I was even nominated.

"The job is about helping people. There are always different challenges and you get a real sense of achievement if you can do something positive for the victims of crime."

The 24-year-old added: "Being a PCSO is very much what you make of it and if you want to go out and meet people, get involved in community projects, you can achieve anything you want to with the right attitude."

One of her nominators described her as a "hard-working girl, loyal and compassionate when dealing with people, especially the elderly."

Paul Fortune scooped the award in South Gloucestershire.

Based in Chipping Sodbury, he said: "I am very honoured. It's nice to be recognised by the people in your community. I'm very touched."

Mr Fortune became a PCSO five years ago, after his previous warehouse job. But though at the age of 44 he still has ambitions to be a police constable and is hoping to become one soon.

The married father-of-three believes the bank of knowledge and experience he has built up as a PCSO will stand him in good stead.

"I'm a firm believer that you get back what you put in, but this has been a brilliant surprise," he added.

Heather Searle won the award in North Somerset for her sterling work in and around Weston-super-Mare.

She runs a weekly beat surgery, actively contributes to the anti-social behaviour patrols and helps other PCSOs on her team.

Nominating her, Claire Rogers, of Hughenden Road, Weston, said: "Heather is an asset to our local community. She is polite, friendly and has a real heart for the community she works in."

● The overall force winners for each of the six categories will be announced on Thursday, March 8, at a Gala Dinner at Cadbury House, Congresbury.