Do you know a police officer who deserves recognition for their outstanding work in the community?

If so, Isle of Man Newspapers is offering readers the chance to thank officers who have gone the extra mile to help them, and give them public recognition.

Nominations have opened for Isle of Man Newspapers’ Community Police Officer of the Year award.

We write a story in one of our titles about each officer nominated.

The officer who is awarded the title will receive a trophy at the Chief Constable’s annual awards ceremony, taking place at the Gaiety Theatre in April.

Chief Constable Gary Roberts said: ’One of the great things about policing is that individual officers can make a positive difference to the lives of other people.

’They can do this after a one-off event, or they can do it because of constant interaction with individuals or even whole communities.

’Previous winners of the Isle of Man Newspapers Community Police Officer of the Year have included officers who have helped people in times of great need and also officers who have effectively become community leaders because of how they gone about their work.’

He added: ’I am delighted that Isle of Man Newspapers continues to sponsor this award, because it gives the public the chance to highlight the great work that police officers do across the island throughout the year.

’Officers do not actively pursue praise, but those who are nominated for the award are always grateful and very proud.’

Eight police officers were nominated last year and Constable Gemma Berry, who is based at Castletown, was chosen as the winner.

She was nominated by Port Erin resident Pauline Lunn to thank her for the support she had provided to her family during a difficult period and for her wider work in the community.

’She is an amazing lady, so good and patient,’ she said. ’You know she cares. She just embodies what community policing is all about.’

The deadline for nominations is March 4, after which a judging panel at Isle of Man Newspapers will choose the winner.

Officers can be of any rank and those nominated in previous years can be nominated again.

To nominate an officer send the name of your chosen officer and your reasons for choosing him or her by email to [email protected] or write to Community Police Officer of the Year Award, Isle of Man Newspapers, European House, Peel Road, Douglas, IM1 5ED.

Please include your own full name, address and a phone number so we can contact you.