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

The award offers readers the chance to thank officers who have gone the extra mile to help them.

Deputy editor Jackie Darbyshire said: ’Due to the nature of police officers’ roles, much of their work often goes on behind the scenes.

’They make a large positive impact on the communities they work hard to serve.

’This award is our way of giving public recognition to the very best officers in the island.’

She added: ’Now is your chance to say thank you to an outstanding officer who has made a real difference where you live.’

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.’

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.

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.