An “incredible, gifted” police officer has been recognised by venues on Westside for his vital contribution to Westside’s successful night-time economy.
Sgt Dale Harwood, a member of West Midlands Police’s city centre policing team, was presented with a special Wonders of Westside award, otherwise known as the WOWs.
The award was voted on by bars, pubs and clubs around Broad Street and Brindleyplace for the Best Police Officer throughout the year on Westside.
Sgt Harwood was unable to attend the WoWs awards night and so was instead presented with his trophy during a regular police briefing on Broad Street.
Peter Willis, Westside BID’s senior street warden, said: “Dale deserves this award because when he and his team are on duty on Westside they always go over and above to serve the night-time community.
“Policing in general on Westside is very good but Dale has consistently performed brilliantly, as has his team. This has been recognised by venue managers throughout the night-time economy and he thoroughly deserves the recognition this award gives.”
Peter added that it was felt appropriate to present Sgt Harwood with the award on the street where he does so much good work.
Sgt Harwood’s boss, Insp Christian Harrison, said: “I was chuffed to bits that Dale won this award.
“It is recognition for 12 months of real hard work by that officer in dealing with the local policing plan in our endeavour to reduce violence and ensure the safety of people who come to the city centre.
“Dale is an incredible, gifted officer who communicates well with the public and whose goal is to make sure that people enjoy the city’s night-time economy and go home safely to their loved ones.”
Main picture: Sgt Dale Harwood (left) and Chris Beetham, general manager, Rosies Birmingham.
Inset picture: (from left) street warden Nicola Whitehurst, Sgt Dale Harwood and Peter Willis
Fantastic to see the police force given the recognition they deserve.