THE outstanding achievements of 39 police officers, staff and members of the public were celebrated at final Wiltshire Police Force Awards ceremony of 2016 at the Corn Exchange in Devizes.

Acts of bravery, inspirational leadership and excellent teamwork were celebrated at the event on Thursday, which was attended by more than 150 people.

Chief Constable Mike Veale said: "Looking back over the year at Wiltshire Police and what our officers, staff and the local community have achieved is inspiring. I was delighted to present awards to such amazing people and I am immensely proud of our staff and officers.

"We are extremely fortunate in Wiltshire that we have unstinting support from our partners and members of the public who we serve. The award ceremony recognises just a small amount of the fantastic work carried out within Wiltshire Police, but also with partners and members of the public in our local communities.

"One story in particular stood out for me; a young 13 year old girl, Teigan Morgan, who stopped her father’s motorhome and administered first aid at the road side on the busy A303. Teigan not only saved her dads life that day, but also prevented any further tragedies. What an inspiration to all young people out there.

"Thank you to all the families and friends who support officers and staff to allow them to do the roles they do, helping to keep the communities of Wiltshire safe."

Medals for long service and good conduct were also presented at the awards, which honoured members of staff who had worked at Wiltshire Police for more than 20 years.

Police and Crime Commissioner Angus Macpherson said: "It is always a pleasure to attend these awards recognising the achievements and dedication of the staff and officers at Wiltshire Police. There is no doubt in my mind that we have remarkable people working in this Force right from the Chief Constable to the officers and staff working behind the scenes and on the front line.

"The stories I hear on these occasions never cease to move and amaze me and this evening has been the same. I believe the corner stone of policing is that the police are the public and the public are the police.

"We have a shared responsibility to keep each other safe and today provides further, quite humbling evidence of members of the public coming to support both loved ones and strangers in times of danger.

"I would like to congratulate all the recipients both from the Force and the public who have shown a range of great qualities. Courage, quick thinking, empathy and investigative skills just to name a few.

"Congratulations on your award and thank you for all you have done for the communities across Wiltshire and Swindon."