Police volunteers who help to support victims of crime in Dorset have been recognised at a regional awards ceremony.

The awards ceremony was held in Gloucester to highlight the dedication and hard work of special constables and police support volunteers.

The Dorset Victims’ Bureau has been awarded Police Support Volunteer Team of the Year 2017. The Dorset Victims’ Bureau provide updates on the progress of investigations and help to support victims of crime.

The bureau was established in 2013 making Dorset Police one of the first forces in the country to support victims of crime in this way.

Seven of the group’s volunteers have given more than 1,000 hours of their time to supporting victims since the beginning of this year.

The bureau handles more than 3,500 new crimes every month and helps to give valuable support to victims in Dorset.

Victims bureau manager Karen Bader said the work the team does is invaluable.

She added: “Winning this award is great recognition for the outstanding work the whole team performs at the bureau.

“We are passionate about the work we are doing to support victims of crime in our community and knowing members of the team give up their own time to support this is truly humbling.

“Their contribution is invaluable and should not be underestimated.’’ Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner Martyn Underhill congratulated the team on their success at the awards.

He said: “The Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner is delighted to co-fund the work of the Dorset Victims’ Bureau and I wholeheartedly congratulate the team on winning this award.

“It recognises their hard work, dedication and professionalism in supporting victims through the crime investigation process.”