Letters

Below is a selection of the latest letters / emails we have received from members of the public about the service they have received from West Midlands Police.

April’s Wednesfield Vaisakhi Procession

As the local ward councillor for Wednesfield South and a committee member for the Guru Nanak Gurdwara on Well Lane, I would just like to personally congratulate and thank West Midlands Police in regards to the superb job your NPT did on Sunday 7 April.

As stated above we had our annual Vasakhi procession and Wednesfield NPT, under the leadership of Sergeant David Stanley, were absolutely great. From day one, Sergeant Stanley and PC Bethan Pye were constantly in touch with me going through every detail – the communication with both was second to none.

On the actual day of the procession I cannot tell you how impressed I was with the professionalism and diversity shown by all present. Wednesfield NPT really did go that extra mile and interacted well with all the members of the Sikh community, young and old.

I honestly believe that this NPT are a credit to the force and other NPT teams across the country can learn a great deal from this team. The knowledge of diversity shown by Sgt Stanley was very impressive. I also feel that in these modern times we are very quick to criticise the police but not as quick to praise their excellent efforts such as this.

I would be extremely grateful if you can pass on my sincere thanks to Sgt Stanley and all his team and I look forward to working very closely with them in the future.

Once again on behalf of both Gurdwara committees Wednesfield and Willenhall, thank you for all your hard work and patience.

Councillor Bhupinder Singh Gakhal, Labour Wednesfield South

Birmingham East officer thanked for positive attitude

Dear Chief Constable,

I am writing to you to compliment A/PS 6794 Baxter who works out of Stechford police station.

His professionalism and positive attitude towards me is much appreciated and I would like to take this opportunity to wish him well for promotion to Police Sergeant in the near future.

Best personal wishes,

Asif Hussain (BA Hons)

Tipton resident thanks neighbourhood PCSO for ASB intervention

I wish to thank PCSO Andrew Robinson who attended my property on an information gathering round to find out if residents had any problems.

This officer was very polite and understanding and sympathetic to my plight, unlike other visitors who have attended my property previously and stated that my neighbour’s son has every right to play with the football and if it hits my car it’s an accident.

I have been having anti-social behaviour problems for a number of years from my neighbour and I had previously been very critical of the police.

I wish to thank the officer who attended my home and wish to compliment him on the way he dealt with me and the way he handled my situation. I also wish to congratulate you on having such decent officers in the police force.

I request that you allow me to thank him in person, if not please pass my thanks on to him as after his visit, the anti-social behaviour has decreased significantly and the caravan has been removed from the driveway.

Anti-social behaviour has had a very negative effect on me and my family for the past three years and I wish to thank this officer for doing his job and alleviating this problem.

I believe this officer should be complemented on the help he has provided and congratulated on his people skills, empathy and commitment to his work.

Mohammed Sayeed, Tipton

Local care organisation grateful to Dudley PCSO for donation

Dear PCSO Julie Pressdee,

I was in our office this morning and heard of your help in providing Dudley Crossroads with a generous donation for an event for our carers and of course, those they provide everyday support for. Thank you very much.

While we have supported carers in Dudley since 1982, in recent years we have found generous support for special events which have become increasingly successful. For carers, the opportunity for enjoyment adds considerably to the support they also do – as indeed we all do.

Thank you again.

Yours sincerely,

Mike Carpenter, Vice Chair, Dudley Crossroads

Dudley PCSOs tackle vandalism issue to delight of resident

I wish to place on record my heartfelt thanks to the way your division handled my problem with vandalism.

Your PCSOs Christine Williams and Cheryl Langford were out of this world.

When they first introduced themselves to me I was really on a low, but after speaking to them I was a changed man, they encouraged me no end.

And now the increased visible presence of your officers has made me feel more secure beyond words.

I thank you most sincerely and will you pass on my added thanks to your staff.

Yours sincerely,

Harold Butler, Dudley

Wolverhampton PC, Peter Benford, thanked for ‘help and kindness’

We would like to thank PC 0962 Peter Benford for his help when we had our patio window shattered. His help, kindness and efficiency were much appreciated.

We are very happy with the arrangement that was put in place and everything is going to plan.

Mr and Mrs Wilkinson, Wolverhampton

Dudley MP congratulates officers on top performing offender management scheme

I am writing to pass on my warmest congratulations on the recent news that the Dudley borough has been named as the UK’s top area for cutting re-offending rates.

I was very impressed to hear about the falling re-offending rate, and very pleased to hear that it is largely attributed to the strong relationships that you have with charities, probation workers and training providers. I also understand that you have officers dedicated to targeting criminals with the aim of preventing them from committing crime in the first place.

This seems to me to be an excellent, joined-up approach to tackling the problem of re-offending and it is clearly working very well.

Please do pass on my congratulations to all your team on this achievement.

Best Wishes,

Margot James MP
Member of Parliament for Stourbridge

Bereaved daughter thanks Dudley officers who attended scene

I am writing to you to express my appreciation to the officers that attended the sudden death of my father. At approximately 2100hrs on Friday 30 November he collapsed in Conway Close, Kingswinford and was found by a member of the public.

Due to the circumstances it was treated as a suspicious death and I understand that Sergeant Andrews supervised the scene.

I apologise for the delay in putting pen to paper, but to be honest my sister and I found the first few months extremely difficult. Also with Dad being a foreign national we had to sort out and finalise a number of matters.

PC 21049 York very kindly returned dad’s belongings to us the same evening.

I would also like you to pass on our thanks to the other officers that attended, including the control room staff that often go unnoticed.

I am a retired police officer and well aware how frequently the profession is subjected to unfair criticism. I know that a letter of appreciation can be very uplifting and good for moral.

Yours sincerely, Jackie Taylor

Coventry PCSOs rescue girl’s 13th birthday party

I would just like to convey my appreciation to PCSOs Garry Armstrong and Sophie Niepceron who went out of their way to help me obtain a parcel from the post office.

It’s quite a long story, but I will try and keep it brief.

I had ordered some party accessories for my daughter’s party on the 13^th April.  Somehow the first parcel was dispatched on the 4^th but never reached me, so the supplier re-sent the items again. I had been watching every day for a card to come through the post as I knew I wouldn’t be in when the postman tried to deliver, however it never came.

On the morning of the party I saw the postman and asked if he had anything for me, he informed me that he had tried to deliver the day before but I wasn’t in so the parcel would be back at the post office.

I went to the post office and they had the parcel but despite the fact that I had various forms of ID they refused to give me the parcel.  I was really distressed as the parcel contained all the accessories I needed to dress the hall for my daughter’s 13^th birthday party.

I went to pick my daughter up from the shops in Parkville Highway in Holbrooks and I happen to see the two above mentioned officers walking the beat, so I asked for their advice on how they thought I may be able to resolve my issue.

We were at a loss when we spotted the postman who had tried to deliver the package.  He assured me that he had posted a card through the door (although I definitely didn’t get this) and he offered to come back to the post office with me and the two officers to see if we could resolve the problem.

The post office then gave me the parcel and all was well. 

I feel that both Sophie and Garry went the extra mile and I just wanted to make you aware of their efforts.

I know in the big scheme of things it may sound trivial but it’s sometimes the little things that can mean so much.

Really grateful for their help.

Kind regards, 

Janice Woodward

Birmingham East response officers tackle volatile situation with ‘tact and calm’

Dear Inspector Kirkpatrick,

I just wanted to drop a quick note to express my gratitude to officers Dillon and Lowe who responded to my call for help after a fight broke out at my house on Friday evening.

They both handled a potentially tricky and difficult situation with enormous tact and calm – dealing with a young man who was in a very precarious state of mind with consummate skill and patience.

I am sure you are by now aware of the nature of the situation – the young man in question has, somehow or other washed up on my doorstep and seems to have adopted me, in what has to be one of the more bizarre turn of events in my life.

He has been through a terrible time over many years and events on Friday could have easily and rapidly spiralled out of control. Instead he was made to feel safe and, although it took a while, calm.

Faced with an angry and apparently potentially violent young lad it would have been all too easy for the officers to have reacted in a much more knee-jerk manner. Instead they listened and waited and allowed him to tell his story and for their help, I am more grateful than I can say.

Please pass on my thanks to them and Fil also wants me to say thank you to them – for acknowledging what he said and taking into consideration the situation end for treating him so politely.

Yours sincerely,

James Parsons

Birmingham East CAPT officer thanked for school intervention

This is just a short note of thanks to one of your officers, WPC 3313 Johal who recently worked on behalf of my husband and me, when we were having problems with some youths from a local school.

We haven’t had any problems since this incident was resolved and we appreciate the work she put into this problem for us.

Could you please pass on our thanks to her?

Yours sincerely,

Mrs V Broadbent

Erdington officers’ Q & A session at local school

I would like to thank PCSO Carly Hirst and PC Karen Haywood very much for coming to visit the reception children.

This visit was aimed at supporting the children’s topic on ‘People who help us’ and it proved very successful. The children had a great time and learned a number of new things. It also helped to allay any fears they had about the police.

The police car was a great surprise and a big hit!

Thank you for giving them the time and consideration to answer their questions and providing them with clear and thorough explanations.

Thanks once again.

A McCulloch, Reception class teacher

St Barnabus Primary School, Spring Lane, Erdington

WMP puppy walker offers support to retired dogs’ fund

Having just come back from a holiday, my dad was telling me about an article in the paper regarding retired police dogs – he recognised Dan’s name (PC Dan Thomas) as the officer who took Zane the dog who replaced Janus (I puppy walked Zane ).

Anyway Dad and I decided that for birthday and Christmas gifts we would both rather give £50 to a chosen charity on each occasion. Dad has asked if I can donate his birthday gift to your charity, which I’m thrilled about.

Also this year, I have pledged to raise money for medical detection dogs. I’m running Snowdonia in June, which is an extreme run over the trails. I haven’t as yet been in contact with MDD with my pledge (wanted to see how training went), but having been told about your charity I’m only too happy to split anything I raise.

Being a puppy walker myself, it’s great to know that not only I do my bit at the beginning but at the finish as well. Kind of cradle to grave care I guess.

As for Zane, he was my first shepherd to walk. I had the spaniels before him but to say he was special to me is an understatement. I think sometimes you can simply just bond with an animal, look in their eyes and feel something very special. I had that with the little fella as I did with Gabe, a spaniel I had. Gabe failed so I had him as a pet and feel so lucky to have this guy in my life. Zane is the one I feel so proud of and feeling proud of Zane makes me feel proud that I have met Dan who is a credit to both his profession and family.

I’m really proud that I have helped the police force as you’re all great guys and gals who do us the general public a truly great service and you truly truly don’t get the credit or the respect you should have.

So thank you for all that you do and if being a tiny ripple in the pond to help then I will.

Keep up the good work!

Donna Evans, Balsall Common

New fund aims to help police dogs enjoy retirement: http://www.news-beat.co.uk/?p=10701

Traumatised owners grateful to compassionate officers’ help with dangerous dog

Yesterday two wonderful dog handlers PS 4117 Bennett and PC 5077 Thomas came to our aid when our own dog became extremely aggressive and dangerous whilst at home.  It was a tough decision as the dog was very much a part of our family but we decided to have him euthanised following several attacks on my husband.

The two police officers concerned contained the dog safely and took him to the vets along with my husband who by this time was inconsolable. They then kindly insisted my husband leave whilst the dog was euthanised to spare him any more upset and then stayed with my dog until the end.

These officers not only displayed exemplary professionalism throughout the whole afternoon but showed incredible sensitivity towards my husband who was quite clearly traumatised by the whole experience.  They are both a credit to the police force and yesterday would not have been possible without them.

In view of the amazing support we received yesterday we would like to make a donation to the retired police dog fund and would ask that you forward the necessary details to enable us to do this.

Would you please also forward this email to the officers’ superiors at Lloyd House so that they may be made aware of the two wonderful officers they have on their team.

We are eternally grateful!

Thank you

Sarah and Matt Betts, Walsall

Five-year neighbour dispute finally resolved thanks to Sgt Danny Cooke

To Chief Superintendent Murray,

I am writing in respect of the involvement of your Sparkbrook local neighbourhood police team that have been involved in the dispute that spanned nearly five years.

Many different approaches were used and equally different strategies were applied over the course of the years by many different team leaders (sergeants) to bring an end to this matter.

The policing teams had also worked closely with both parties to try to reconcile any differences and bring about a successful end to the matter.

Neither had bared any fruit, or lead to a culminating end.

Though it must be expressed the hard work, commitment and dedication by all your officers has been immensely appreciated by my family.

However, my full and sincere gratitude goes to Sergeant Danny Cooke and his team who did manage to bring this matter to a end in the short time they had to deal with it.

Sergeant Danny Cooke’s overall strategy appeared the correct strategy he had tailored for this dispute. His decisions he had to make were the correct decision for the matter he was dealing with.

He had a firm, yet fair and independent approach whilst taking into consideration the cultural sensitivities of the area he worked in, he was able to balance this carefully to make good judgements, combined with his superior intuition it allowed him to make impeccable decisions and devise excellent ground breaking strategies that bought the matter to a culminating end.

I believe this Sergeant Cooke has the potential to excel well beyond his current post and I will like to see him do well.

He is a well respected figure in the local community he works in and many people have high regards for him, deservedly so.

Thank you to Sergeant Danny Cooke, thank you Sparkbrook neighbourhood team and thank you West Midlands Police for having such a professional team to be serving our neighbourhood.

Yours sincerely,

Arshad Akbar

East Midlands Trading Standards thanks local officers for joint Coventry fraud investigation

I would like to thank the West Midlands Police officers who assisted us in executing a total of five warrants recently.

On Friday 8 March, five entry and search warrants were executed by officers from the West Midlands Police whilst assisting East Midlands Trading Standards officers. These were for locations within Broadgate House, Coventry and were part of a large scale fraud enquiry called Operation Spinnaker.

I would like a special thank you to go to PC1592 Coy who swore out the warrants and PS Davenport who organised the staff and logistics for the operation. Their willingness to assist us in this enquiry was a credit to the force.

Joe Royle
East Midlands trading Standards
Regional Team

PCs Reid and Williams praised for compassion by Coventry resident

I am writing to convey my immense gratitude and pride in two of your police officers who attended my parent’s house when my Dad attempted suicide for the third time.

PC Tom Reid (21356) and PC Gareth Williams (0997) attended my parent’s home where the incident happened. PC Tom Reid came to University Hospital Coventry & Warwickshire where I work to get the keys to the garage. He dealt with me with such compassion, respect and professionalism that I simply could not let it pass without commending them.

Tom asked if there was anything they could do to help and was ready to go beyond to help. I am a registered nurse at the hospital, so I understand how front line staff in this country often get criticized.

These two officers made me and my mum feel supported and protected and easing my mum’s awful day.

S Williams
Stoke Hill, Coventry

Student charity fundraisers meet airport officers on their ‘Great Escape’ from Nottingham Uni

I just wanted to email and say a big thank you to the kind police officers at Birmingham Airport on 23 February.

Myself and my friend Harry were taking part in The Great Escape, a charity event which gave us 36 hours to get as far away from Nottingham as we could. We were struggling to get very far from Nottingham and decided to concentrate on getting some great photos instead.

We later had a prize giving ceremony and our photo with two of your officers won us the prize for Best Photo!

Once again, thank you very much for your kindness. It was much appreciated.

Claire Jermany

PC Sam Tarbuck thanked for hospital child’s police experience

Dear Samantha,

What can I say? Just thank you so very much for all you did for Bethany on Friday 8 February, in fulfilling her Wishing Well request for a visit to West Midlands Police.

She clearly had both a very enjoyable and educational day in your capable hands, which I think has only enhanced her desire to become an officer once her education is complete.

You really do have those ‘people skills’ we discussed in the car – Beth did say she was quite nervous on route to the station but that seemed to dissipate the instant she said hello to you.

She loved the dogs, the freebies, even the press attention, but I think she took away your company and your advice most of all. Outstanding.

 

Dear Insp Blakeman,

I felt I must drop you a line with grateful thanks for all your help fulfilling the Wishing Well request of Bethany Edwards, a former patient of our children’s ward. You may recall she had a VIP day with yourself at Wednesbury police station.

I was very grateful to the dog team handlers who contributed to the day enormously, but I must send extra special thanks to PC Samantha Tarbuck, who turned out to be the ideal choice as our visit guide.

Shall I just say, Bethany has experienced a lot of social problems in recent years, leading to a lot of understandable insecurity and self-confidence.

PC Tarbuck immediately put Bethany at ease and handled her many questions in a precise, clear manner, that I’m sure will only enhance her desire to join the force once her education is complete. I believe Samantha has been trained in family liaison, could I suggest a role in press and general community liaison too? She’s a natural.

Thank you once again to you, Vicky Grey who got the ball rolling and all at West Midlands Police for giving Bethany a real day to remember.

Kindest regards,

Steve Ford

Wishing Well, C2 Children’s Ward, Russell’s Hall Hospital, Dudley

Fraud victim thanks Operation Paddock officers

Dear Chief Constable,

I trust that the judicial service has now run its course on the above operation and that the perpetrator was brought to justice at the end of January.

Now that the case is now finished I would like to record my gratitude to all your staff that I had contact with in relation to this case. I was on a brief holiday in Birmingham for Crufts last year with my daughter and two sons when my card details were compromised. The first I knew about it was when I returned home and the card company had stopped my card. My initial thought was one of anger (at the card company) but when they referred me to DC Mick Irwin and he explained to me what had happened, my anger turned to amazement at the crime, but also to admiration of your officers for detecting, tracking and investigating the crimes involved.

I must compliment your officers, especially DC Irwin and DC Woodley. At every stage of the operation, they have been sympathetic, have answered any questions I have had, and have been impeccable ambassadors for your force.

Whilst I will not be at Crufts this year, the incident has not “put me off” coming to your area in the future – quite the opposite… with a force as vigilant as yours policing the area, I am more likely to feel safer in your area than in many other areas in the UK.

I would be grateful if you would pass my heartfelt thanks on to all concerned in Operation Paddock.

Solihull officers praised by stranded motorists

On Tuesday 12 February at about 12.30 pm I was a passenger in a friend’s car, which broke down at a very busy junction at the top of Blossomfield Road opposite Homer Road. We managed, using the incline, to reverse it partly into the entrance of a private drive, but it was still protruding slightly into the road and causing a slight obstruction to buses coming out of Station Road.

We are both octogenarians and were unable to push and manoeuvre the car and by then were feeling pretty helpless.

Whilst we were waiting for the AA to arrive, a police car drew up.

May I say how impressed and grateful we both are for the assistance, consideration and support we had from the male and female officers who came to our aid, but whose numbers I regret to say I did not take.

Bereaved daughter thanks compassionate Wolverhampton officers

I am writing to ask if you would pass on my sincere thanks to PC 20078 Singh and PC7968 Bedi based at Wednesfield police station.

On Sunday 27January, my father (William Martin) tragically died whilst out for a walk. Having gone looking for him the above officers were just leaving the scene. The care, compassion and support they gave to me and to my family when they took me home was the one thing that sustained me through those first few terrible hours.

Over the past days I have thought of them many times and I would like them to know that I will always hold them in highest regards and with great affection.

On that day, for me, they went above and beyond the call of duty and are a credit to the force.

I hope you will pass on my personal thanks to them.

Yours faithfully,

Jackie Blower (Mrs)

Greetings from Massachusetts…

Hello West Midlands Police,

It is with great interest that I read about the relentless fight against crime in the West Midlands.

Emigrating to the U.S.A in 1976 from my hometown of Bromsgrove, becoming a Police Officer in Newton Massachusetts soon afterward. Now retired after 20 years of service. Fortunately my 20 years was on the most part without incident.

Because of my very English accent, my nickname was “Bobby” I have no idea why?!

It is interesting that there maybe a vast difference in the types of crime between our two counties, but the relentless fight is the same.

Best Regards to all,

Michael Langley

(Lieutenant retired)

ASB victim praises Solihull PCSO Andy Burton

You have been dealing with an issue I have been having with noise disturbance neighbours and I just wanted to express my appreciation for the way you have dealt with this matter.

Whilst I appreciate noise disturbance is a far cry from the more severe issues going on in the world today I sincerely appreciate the time, effort, understanding and high level of service you have provided me with to try and get this matter resolved.

If officers weren’t able to attend after I have contacted 101 (during the early hours of the morning) you have always followed it up the next day with a phone call or a visit – showing that the problem isn’t going unanswered.

In addition, I have never felt that the matter I have raised has been unimportant or a waste of your time which I am very thankful for.

I am desperate for the noise disturbance to stop as it was beginning to affect my lifestyle – I do still dread Saturday evenings arriving in case I am awoken by more noise disturbance but knowing you (and your colleagues) are on hand to assist reminds me I am not on my own.

Please pass my gratitude on to your manager/sergeant and in the nicest possible way, I hope not to require your services anytime soon!

Birmingham West and Central CAPT thanked for SOCA support

On behalf of SOCA I would like to pass on my thanks to officers of the CAPT team lead by sergeant 9110 Neil Mason, for the prompt, professional and enthusiastic support they provided to us during a recent arrest incident.

In January, SOCA officers responded to a request from Thames Valley Police to search three addresses in Birmingham and arrest of a suspect and two associates in relation to arson with intent to endanger life. An added complication was that one of these individuals was considered a threat to her own children who she still had with her.

Prompt support was required. This was provided by Neil’s team, who facilitated a briefing room and sufficient resources to carry out the job. From the first arrival at this briefing, my officers were met with enthusiasm, courtesy and a total ‘can do’ attitude.

The subsequent operation was successful with three in custody and two children safely recovered.

Yours sincerely,

Ian McWalter

Investigation Development Manager

England and Wales Network

Primary school thanks Coventry PCSOs for traffic operation

The Upper Stoke neighbourhood team responded with immediate patrols when a young boy was hit in the face by the door of an inconsiderately parked vehicle outside Stoke Heath Junior School. The head teacher requested patrols to advise people who parked near the school to do so considerately.

From the head teacher:

“Thanks so much for sending Gemma – it has made such a difference and our parents are very pleased. I have attached one, a grandparent’s letter. He actually is the grand parent of the child who got hurt when the passenger opened the car door!

Thanks again.

Julia Rapsomanikis (Head teacher – Stoke Heath Primary School, Coventry)”

From the concerned grandparent:

“Dear Ms. Rapsomanikis

On behalf of concerned Parents/ Guardians I would like to thank your goodself, colleagues and Coventry City Council for dealing with the parking issues outside the school.

Over the last few days I have noted the presence of both Police and Community Support Officers monitoring the parking situation.

Once again a “Big Thank You” to all…

Kind Regards, Mark Heffernan”

Head teacher thanks ‘wonderful’ BN LPU neighbourhood officers

Dear Chief Superintendent Bottomley,

As a head teacher, I have been involved with community policing for the last twenty years.

Throughout that time I have met and worked with some wonderful police officers. However, all of them are eclipsed by Garry Farrington and Rachael Smith.

These two officers epitomise everything that is right about policing today. They are kind, thoughtful, emotionally intelligent and resilient. They uphold our nation’s values through the way they conduct themselves and work with adults and staff in the Four Oaks community. They are ably supported by their sergeant but it is to Garry and Rachael we go to when our youngsters need guidance.

Thank you so much for making them available. I can’t begin to tell you how cost effective their preventative work is. If I can ever be of service to you or support you in some way to pay them back for what they do for us here I would be more than happy to do so.

Please excuse the syntax and general sentence construction, I am writing this in a hurry but what is important is that I don’t lose the sentiment and the gratitude that I have for their generosity of spirit.

Yours sincerely,

Christopher Stone, Executive Head Teacher

The Arthur Terry Learning Partnership

During December, the force’s brass band attended the Christmas community lights switch on with the local neighbourhood team at Witton Lodge community centre. The band played carols with the community whilst the children queued to meet Santa.

Below is a thank you letter sent to Sergeant Jonathan Beach and the band.

Dear Jonathan,

I would like to take this opportunity to THANK you, the band members and the neighbourhood team for the fantastic performance you so kindly gave at our Community  Christmas Light Switch-on on the 4th December.

Many members of the public have commented that it was wonderful to welcome you back for the second year running since the atmosphere you create is so fabulously festive, and your enthusiasm is infectious!

I know the school brass band loved playing alongside you too and we look forward to inviting you to be part of our future events.

Once again, THANK YOU!

Phillipa, Community Life Programme Officer
Witton Lodge Community Association

WMP Brass Band helps charity carollers raise money

On Saturday 22 December 2012, the band played at a charity carol service at the Earlsdon Social Club, Earlsdon, Coventry.

Two local charities – Zoe’s Place, which is a children’s hospice, and the Blind Association – benefited from monies raised.

I have received nothing but positive feedback from the audience who enjoyed singing along to the Christmas carols.

May I take this opportunity to place my thanks on record especially as the event took place on the last Saturday before Christmas and I am aware the band members travelled some distance to perform.

PC 8927 David Baynham, Cheylesmore and Earlsdon NPT, Coventry LPU

Sutton resident thanks PCSO for ‘exemplary’ service

I am the Neighbourhood Watch Coordinator for the recently created Rockingham Gardens and Rushmoor Close NHW Scheme based in Sutton Coldfield (Birmingham North LPU).

Prior to moving to Sutton Coldfield at the start of 2012, I had previously been the coordinator for another NHW Scheme in the village of Curdworth, for over 24 years, which came under the umbrella of North Warwickshire Police.

So as you can see I have had a reasonable amount of experience in the past in dealing with both Neighbourhood Watch and the police over many years.

However, in terms of establishing the latest Rockingham and Rushmoor NHW Scheme I do feel the need to document that the help and support I have received from West Midlands Police has been exemplary and in this regard I would like to take the opportunity to praise one of your serving officers in particular.

The officer in question is PCSO Lindsay Brenton and while I accept that other police staff have also been involved in providing me with help and assistance, in my opinion the service and dedication to duty shown by PCSO Brenton has been exceptional.

PCSO Brenton has assisted in every way in helping me to establish the new Rockingham and Rushmoor NHW Scheme, not only in supplying all of the necessary NHW materials, but also in attending our inaugural meeting, providing the latest Area Crime Figures together with offering ongoing friendly advice to the new NHW members.

PCSO Brenton continues to provide a level of service which I believe is well beyond his normal call of duty and as an example PCSO Brenton recently organised and conducted a visit on behalf of our NHW Members to the WMP crime prevention house (based in Brownhills) on a day when he was officially off duty and should have been away from work.

I personally believe that you should be really proud of PCSO Brenton both in terms of his dedication to duty and for his ability to interface with the general public in a friendly and polite manner making him a real asset to your team.

Finally, please accept my personal thanks and appreciation for running a very successful Sutton Trinity Neighbourhood Team and I would particularly like you to acknowledge and pass on my thanks to both PCSO Brenton and PCSO Steven Goodman for all their past help and assistance.

Yours sincerely,

Ray Mole (NHW Coordinator)

Wolverhampton school thanks local PCSO

I would like to take the opportunity in bringing to your attention the good service that we have received from PCSO Liam Price, our school liaison officer.

Liam has been proactive for some time now and has provided the school with many resources not available from other sources.

He spoke to the whole school about cyber-bullying which was done over a period of several days and weeks and following this he followed this up with individual visits where he discussed issues related to this with individual students and small groups.

He has attended and been involved with several resolutions both of students and also in one case of ‘warring’ parents where he came into school, sat them down and attempted a solution.

Liam also was able to obtain for the school the ‘Guns and Gangs’ presentation involving Leticia Shakespeare’s mother but through no fault of Liam we were unable to have the presentation due to late notified exams. Liam tried several various times and dates but we were unfortunately not able to go ahead.

I spoke to Liam only this morning in respect of him doing a fifty minute presentation to our Year 10 Social Science group and he agreed immediately and this is now booked for Monday 3 December.

Liam has again offered the ‘Gangs and Guns ‘presentation and r am hopeful that we will be able to benefit from this in the near future. Liam has also proved invaluable just as a point of contact with other officers and he makes regular appearances in and around the school. With shrinking budgets, both within schools and the police service, it is partlcularly satisfying to have a resource available for use in both areas of public service.

Yours sincerely,

Mr R Wheeler, Coppice Performing Arts School

PC Woodward a ‘credit to the force’

Dear Sir or Madam,

I would just like to place on record my sincere thanks to PC Bill Woodward who assisted me following the theft of my handbag on Monday 26 November.

PC Woodward arrived at North Solihull Leisure Centre to take statements, when I mentioned that my house keys and a letter containing my address had been in my bag, he immediately drove me to my address, checked the exterior of the property to ensure that no-one had gained entry and would not leave me until I was safely taken in by my next door neighbour (who incidentally is a WPC located at Solihull Station).

PC Woodward then telephoned me shortly after 10.00pm that evening to check that I had gained entry to my property and that I was secure for the night. He then telephoned me again on Tuesday evening to take details of my mobile phone, and once again asked if I was OK.

This police officer does the force credit (as does my wonderful neighbour), could I please ask that you thank him for his kindness and consideration – I very much appreciated his assistance.

PC Martin Redfern thanked for his compassion by elderly gentleman

Dear Chief Constable,

In these current days of Police complaint and criticism, I would like, in some way to help redress the balance.

I am 75 years of age, Birmingham born and bred, and currently living in Sutton Coldfield. My dearly beloved wife of 51 ¼ years died in Good Hope Hospital on 1 July of this year. On 20 October, the occasion of her 74th birthday had she been alive, my family and I enjoyed an Indian dinner in Boldmere to commemorate her.

Upon returning home, I found that my home was being ransacked. However at my age I was too slow to realise what was going on and enter the home to apprehend the villains. It may have been a good thing, as I am rather impulsive and might have had a go at them.

Following a 999 call that I made at around 8.30pm, I received a visit within minutes, from one of your patrol officers. A further car arrived a couple of minutes later.

Your constables set about their job of checking things out, in the gardens, with the neighbours and of course with me. One of your officers a PC Redfern (PC 9296) gathered that I had been depressed with the tragic loss of my wife, and was receiving some treatment.

We had to wait a while for your Forensic Officer to arrive, possibly an hour or so. Sir, your PC stayed with me until they arrived ensuring my safety and well being.

I would like to commend both him, and the other officer, for the kindness and forbearance, and indeed the force, led by your good self.

Whatever you are feeding them on please maintain it, they are a credit to the uniform, and to the West Midlands. They certainly confirmed my confidence in the Police. Thank you for their forethought and support.

Yours sincerely,

David H Docker, Sutton Coldfield

Thank you for helping make Wolverhampton Police open day a huge success

As we tie up the loose ends from our open day on 31 October we would like to acknowledge and thank everyone outside of our local Partnerships Team, who helped us with the organisation beforehand and helping out during the event.

Our thanks go to:

Sergeant Ian Cooper -for his help throughout the day coordinating the cell tours and with setting up and clearing away.

Sergeant Sid James – for his Oscar-winning performance with the cell tours.

PC Dave Firth -who helped with the organisation, setting up and coordinated Red Man.

PC Richard Horn -for stepping in at the last minute to take the role of Red Man and for taking numerous ‘beatings’ on our behalf.

Sergeant Causer -who dressed as our public order officer and supervised numerous young people as they dressed in police uniform and climbed aboard the public order van.

Wednesfield NPT PCSOs Dave Asher, Sharon Smith and Ian Kerrigan -for cell tour queue and car park supervision all day

Sergeant Phil Griffiths -for bringing his police motorbike and providing every young boy’s dream photo opportunity.

Dan Ecclestone -for his fabulous artwork that helped to promote the event and facilitated the colouring competition.

James Tarbuck -for his invaluable knowledge and help running the Cyberbus.

Inspector Richards – for the loan of her inflatable bungee run.

Inspector Haywood – for the loan of his gazebo.

Inspector Barnsley – for the loan of her public order van.

PCSO Julie Wright – promoting the Prince’s Trust.

PC Alan Poole, Walsall LPU – for bringing the Cyberbus and giving tuition to Wolverhampton staff on how it all works.

PC Angie Roome, Walsall LPU – for sharing and providing her knowledge of event planning.

Thank you!

Di and Keely (PC Diane Shepherd and PC Keely Gibbs)

Wolverhampton Partnerships Team

Phone theft victim grateful to PC Baljinder Kaur, Coventry LPU

I would like to express my gratitude to WPC 5308 Kaur who despite all odds, dealt with my query in a considerate, professional and very efficient manner when my phone was stolen.

She kept me informed throughout and acted immediately to recover my phone. She then phoned me to inform me before finishing her shift.

I have to say apart from the happy outcome WPC Kaur was at all times cautious and positive. She is a real credit to policing.

John Reilley

Froghole Farm

Sutton Bournington

Birmingham North LPU PCSOs thanked by local hospice

(PCSOs Narinder Bains and PCSO Louis Martindale-Vale gave up their rest days to assist with this event).

Dear PCSO Bains,

Thank you for helping make this year’s John Taylor Hospice Birthday Walk a party to be remembered!

We were so pleased with the success of the event which saw around 250 people turning out in wonderful sunshine to enjoy the morning with John Taylor Hospice.

It’s been especially great to read and hear the positive feedback from walkers and one of the elements which has been mentioned is how well organised the event was. This organisation was greatly helped by the presence of members of the Erdington Policing Team.

Thanks to your involvement, as well as that of all our supporters, we had a great party atmosphere before and after the walk as well as making sure the walk itself was safe and well organised.

At John Taylor Hospice we provide practical help, alleviate pain and rekindle possibility. Every day alongside the people of Birmingham and the West Midlands we find new ways to raise a smile and make every moment matter. By working together you’re a part of that.

We are grateful for your support.

Best wishes,

John Orchard

Associate Director of Fundraising

John Taylor Hospice

Erdington

Women hit with glass thanks PC John Quinney, Coventry LPU

Please may I take this opportunity to praise a number of your officers following an unfortunate incident in which I was the victim?

On 29 September whilst out walking with my husband, a male, unknown to me, had thrown a glass which caught me on my forehead.

I suffered cuts, swelling and quite a lot of bruising but was fortunate enough not to be severely injured.

There was a number of witnesses but none better than an off duty officer, PC 0730 John Quinney, who, I believe, gave chase when the offender made off, this offender was finally arrested by the officer.

Also, whilst waiting for treatment at the hospital officers 3389 Chris Burnham and 4041 Mark Levy attended in order to take a statement from me.

I was treated with the utmost respect and the officers dealt with the incident both professionally and with care and consideration.

I was also contacted within 24 hours to update me on the situation and what was happening to the offender.

In these difficult days of constant criticism towards the police, I feel it is only right to let you know how wonderful your officers are, considering they are under so much pressure and work in what I imagine to be a fairly stressful environment.

I did not get to meet PC Quinney but I would like to ask you to pass on my sincere thanks for his commitment and dedication to his job.

Also grateful thanks to officers Burnham and Levy for showing such kindness and consideration towards me and my husband.

Incidentally it was our wedding anniversary and we were heading into the city centre to go for a meal then onto the theatre for a show. The meal we missed, but the officers ensured we made it to get to the show.

You should be very proud of your officers, they deserve a lot more praise than they get.

Kim Tyman, Wyken

Birmingham East ASB victim thanks neighbourhood team

I would like to thank you and your team – especially PCSO Nunney – for all the hard work that has resulted in anti-social behaviour orders being enforced and secured against the youths concerned. Following 8 months of work and 2 weeks of court appearances, this was a long journey but has eventually resulted in a much nicer Heathway shopping experience.

I have spoken to many people around the Heathway including shop keepers who are amazed by the changes, I myself did not believe the anti-social behaviour orders would work but I was wrong they have, I am sure there will be testing times in the future however feel confident that if we work as a team any future problems can be overcome.

Thank you again for an amazing job and the great result.

Terence Dobbins, Hodgehill

PC Fiona Bone’s family thank police service for support

The family of PC Fiona Bone would like to publicly thank the public and police service for the support they have shown following her death.

In a statement, Fiona’s mother and father, June and Paul, sister Vicky, partner Clare and Clare’s daughter Jessie, said: “We would like to express our sincere thanks and gratitude to everyone who has supported our family following the death of our beloved Fiona.

“Words cannot properly express how we feel, but please know that we will not forget the overwhelming amount of sympathy we have received.

“We especially wish to thank Greater Manchester Police for its exceptional level of care, sensitivity and professionalism, and the other police forces around the country for their support; you have all done Fiona proud.

“The people of Manchester and the Great British public have shown us more compassion than we could ever properly thank them for.

“Although this has been the darkest time of our lives, your many acts of kindness have been and continue to be a source of great comfort and strength to us.”

American thanks WMP for protecting Pakistani girl

I live in Atlanta but have been following the story of Malala Yousafzai the young girl shot by the Taliban in Pakistan.

I saw the lead story on the BBC website which had a picture showing police officers protecting the hospital she is in.

I just wanted to record my appreciation for you providing that protection – I’m not sure there could be a stronger testament to the simple decency of the UK policing model than to show that you will stand between this girl and a terrorist.

Thank you,

Martyn Hills

Atlanta, Georgia, USA

Birmingham East officers tackle ASB

Transcript of a letter of thanks sent to the Chief Constable, thanking PC Gareth Sankey and PCSO Ken Walters from Birmingham East:

I am writing to you as the police don’t get the recognition they deserve. We had a lot of problems in Fleetwood Grove (Sheldon) with drugs and criminal damage by some of the tenants. I would like to say a big thank you to PC 1607 Gareth Sankey and his partner for helping us to get rid of the problem tenants and neighbours over the past weeks saying it has changed (for the best).

I would like to mention how the crime rate has fallen in the area, some down 50 per cent, other crime is down 23 per cent, so well done to the police team in my area, knowing it’s a lot safer to go out in day time and night. Well done, keep up the good work.

Yours faithfully,

Mr M McCormick

Coventry couple grateful to PC Haywood

We would like to thank PC Shaun Haywood (Coventry LPU) for helping us when we were victims of theft.

This unfortunately was not a one off offence as it was our own son who was committing the offence. Because the relationship between us and our son had deteriorated due to his appalling behaviour, we were glad to have reported him to the police.

PC Haywood was nothing short of pleasant, courteous, respectful and above all had nothing but compassion for us both. He spent hours with us to make sure we were ok and kept in touch all the time. His listening and caring attitude made us pour our hearts out to him thus trusting him more.

Thankfully we are now in a better position and can say that it is refreshing to provide positive feedback about the police.

Solihull detectives nab violent burglar

Dear Mr Sims,

I am writing to make you aware of the way in which two of your officers have helped my family during the investigation and trial of the accused who was awarded a five year sentence at Warwick Justice Centre in September 2012.

The officers concerned are DC Christopher Burt and DC Ian Adderley who both work out of Solihull police station.

The incident happened in April 2012 when my wife and I disturbed XXXX breaking into my mother-in-law’s next door neighbour. Cutting a long story short, I am disabled and have to walk on stick. While XXXX was trying to escape he tried to stab me in the chest but missed, however he did assault me during his escape. He also caused “section 20″ wounding to my wife by causing a 4″ inch cut to her left cheek, cut to her left ear and also caught her across the wind pipe to.

When passing the description of XXXX across the officers’ radios DC Burt, who was doing over time on the day of the offence, recognised our description and also remembered that the offender’s parents lived in the immediate area. On passing this information to other officers an arrest was made not far from his parent home. It just show what a memory for faces DC Burt has.

All of this was happening at a very stressful time in our lives as my father was in hospital following a heart attack the day before and also went on to have a triple by-pass operation at hospital in Coventry. So as you can imagine our minds where all over the place.

DC Burt was also appointed to our case so statements could be taken and communications could be kept between ourselves and your team.

Another great member of the team is DC Ian Adderley who was the officer at court on the day of the trial. Ian picked us up on the morning of the trial and took myself, my wife and my mother-in-law who was also a witness on the day. While driving to the court Ian went through everything that we could expect to happen on the day which my mother-in-law found very helpful. He also kept us fully informed of the procedure throughout the day as well, very helpful indeed.

Both my wife and I used to be Special Constables for the West Midlands Police Force and we can both safely say that the professionalism shown not just by these two officers but by all the officers that turned out for the incident was second to none.

You should be very proud of the officers you have in what I know as the “L” division of you force. We would both be grateful if you could pass on your thanks as well as ours to the investigating officers and their supervising officers too.

Many thanks,

Mr Peter and Mrs Lesley Scudamore, Marston Green

Solihull officers described as ‘outstanding’

I am writing to you to commend two of your officers who responded to a robbery which occurred at my property on 23.9.12.

They are DC Cairney and PC Crowley who I found to be exceptional officers. After reporting the robbery I found my troubles were to get worse in two ways. The first was after your initial officer, PC Crowley had climbed up the ladder to retrieve the CCTV footage from the surveillance camera, imagine to my horror when I was informed later by DC Cairney that the camera had been installed incorrectly and nothing had been recorded since it was installed some 12 months ago. Then imagine to my complete surprise and delight when DC Cairney not only sympathetic, but actually put right the camera and reinstalled it, the relief was huge.

The second was when my insurance company refused to settle my claim stating that there was no forcible entry to my vehicle.

Your officer DC Hayward, I believe his name was, gave me a courtesy call to see how I was and I informed him I was not doing so well as I had heard from my insurance company. He was wonderful and gave me all the information I needed to appeal against their decision, the result was they decided to override their first decision and allow my claim even though at a reduced rate. Nevertheless I received some monies I would not have received if DC Hayward had not told me to stand my ground. I thank him.

We are both pensioners and neither of us are in good health, but these officers – DC Cairney and DC Hayward – put themselves out for us and made this awful situation so much better.

To us, my wife and myself, these officers were outstanding and really deserve our commendation. They deserve a pat on the back.

Off-duty Dudley officer spots trouble at kids’ centre

Scallywags Indoor Play in Brierley would like to extend their thanks to PC 9217 Paul Roden who was visiting the centre with his family whilst off duty.

A staff member was being verbally abused whilst trying to prevent a fight breaking out within the premises. Luckily Paul intervened and was able to diffuse the situation much to the relief of the staff member.

This incident would have escalated without his intervention so please extend our appreciation to Paul from all at Scallywags.