SPECIAL Constabulary Chief Officer Celvyn Jones has been honoured with a Lord Ferrers Award.

Celvyn has been a member of the Special Constabulary in Cheshire for 16 years, and the Chief Officer for the past 15 months.

During this time, he has helped to develop the Special Constabulary strategy, and leads a team of 400 Special Constables.

Celvyn grew up in Northwich and lives in Crewe, was nominated for the Ferrers Awards, and reached the final among a very strong group of candidates.

He attended a ceremony in London, where he was named the winner of the Leadership Award.

He said: “I’ve enjoyed every minute of being in the Special Constabulary.

The office of constable is a challenging role – especially as a Special, with officers juggling full-time careers and family life.

“I’ve enjoyed leading various teams within Cheshire and learning new skills in leadership and policing.

“I’m a firm believer that the Special Constabulary is a hugely important part of the UK police service and that it’s seen as a professional and unique vocation.

“I’ve always been a strong supporter of the Lord Ferrer’s Awards and being nominated was a nice surprise and an honour.

“The support I’ve received from my Specials team, the regular Chief Officer team, the PCC’s office and the rest of the Police family has been phenomenal.

“Being nominated for this award wouldn’t have been possible without this support.”

The Lord Ferrers Awards are the most prestigious national awards for citizens in policing.

They recognise the outstanding contribution of special constables, police support volunteers and volunteer police cadets. They also acknowledge the support employers and their employees offer to their local force.

Nine winners were announced at the ceremony at the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors, which was attended by Home Secretary Amber Rudd.

Police and Crime Commissioner for Cheshire David Keane said: “I have been deeply impressed by Celvyn’s commitment to the Special Constabulary.

“His leadership and desire to drive it to be one of the best in the country is extremely commendable, and I would like to congratulate him for receiving this national recognition.”