Two awards for SYP officers at the Master Cutler 2023 Emergency Services Awards

South Yorkshire Police celebrated double delight at the Master Cutler 2023 Emergency Services Awards last week.

The force saw two awards brought home from the ceremony on Wednesday 12 July at Sheffield’s Cutlers’ Hall in the city centre.

Sheffield PC Darren McKenna brought home the individual award for exemplary service to the Sheffield district, while Doncaster PC Alex Eyre and A/Sgt Natalie Butler were recognised for their actions when they arrived at the scene of a house fire last year (2022).

There were also further commendations for Team SYP members on the night.

PC McKenna was awarded for his dedication to helping the people of Sheffield since joining SYP for a second time in 1996, having previously been with us briefly in the 1980s.

His commendation stated: “He has performed a number of frontline uniformed roles from response to neighbourhoods to proactive policing, all within the Sheffield district. He commenced his career at West Bar Police Station moving across to Attercliffe, where he has remained for many years, making a difference to Sheffield’s communities.

“Throughout his career, Daz has been the ultimate team player, which we all benefit from.

“He also founded the force boxing club, encouraging an inclusive and enjoyable environment to support the wellbeing, health and fitness of his colleagues.

“He is a ready and willing volunteer for any task that involves pursuing the district’s most wanted people. Darren’s work ethic and commitment to South Yorkshire Police and to his colleagues is second to none and he is a greatly valued member of his team and the wider district.”

Other individual comendations on the night went to Doncaster CID Detective Sergeant Rob Zarchi and Public Order Training Inspector Alex Murthi.

The team award went to Doncaster PC Eyre and A/Sgt Butler.

Their award was in relation to their actions at the scene of a house fire in Doncaster.

South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue had been requested, but had not yet arrived. The fire was in an upstairs bedroom but was spewing toxic fumes into the rest of the building, placing the occupants at serious risk. Bystanders informed the officers there was an elderly couple still inside the property.

Their citation read: “At the time, the officers were unsure of the extent of the fire itself and after assessing the risk, they realised they had no choice but to enter the property as there was a risk to life.

“They did not hesitate for a second and ran into the house. One occupant was an elderly male, who had mobility issues and was unable to walk more than a few yards. The officers managed to help him to his feet, get him into his mobility scooter and began to evacuate him from the property.

“PC Butler went back inside to evacuate the elderly female. Showing professionalism, respect and empathy to the lady, PC Butler managed to evacuate her safely. The officers then proceeded to evacuate the neighbouring property.

“PC Butler and PC Eyre placed themselves at great risk to save the lives of two vulnerable people. Their courage, professionalism and calmness when faced with significant danger is to their credit, epitomising the highest values of the police service.”

There were also two further commendations in the team category for SYP – the Rotherham North neighbourhood policing team for their work in the Swinton area of the district and the TravelSafe team.

Representatives of both SYP and South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service were in attendance at Wednesday’s ceremony, including Chief Constable Lauren Poultney and Chief Fire Officer Chris Kirby.

Chief Constable Poultney said: “It was a pleasure to be at the event and see our own officers recognised for their tireless work serving the community in uniform.

“I would like to congratulate all those who were awarded on the day and thank them for everything they do for both South Yorkshire Police and those who we protect.”

Congratulations to all of the award winners and special commendation recipients from all of us within the force.

Photographs courtesy of Andrew Cox Photographer