TWO familiar faces in Dorset's police service have been honoured for their outstanding work.

PC Les Cummings, of Bridport, and former head of Weymouth East police, Inspector Paul Gillott, received awards from the Dorset Chief Constable, Martin Baker, and the High Sheriff of Dorset, the Honourable Charlotte Townshend, at a ceremony at police headquarters at Winfrith.

PC Cummings, one of Bridport's longest-serving police officers, received a Quality Service Award for helping to raise a thumping £36,000 for worthy causes at the annual police ball.

He shared the award with his wife Carole who has helped him to organise the event for almost a quarter of a century. By putting a little extra on the ticket price, funds have been raised for countless needy groups.

PC Cummings said he was delighted to be one of the first to receive the new award.

He said: "We didn't do it for any reward but it was a nice surprise to be given the framed certificate to keep, especially as I am retiring this year."

Inspector Alan Jenkins, head of Bridport police, said: "This recognition by the Chief Constable is well deserved and reflects the hard work and commitment that PC Cummings has displayed over many years, a fitting reward for him and his wife.

"PC Cummings will be sorely missed when he retires in the autumn."

Insp Gillott, who retired recently after serving for 30 years, received the Chief Constable's Commendation - the second of his career - to recognise his effective leadership, dedication and loyal service.

Originally from Barnsley, Insp Gillott headed the Weymouth East section for almost a decade.

Under his command burglaries and drug dealing plummeted in the Park district and legislation was introduced which helped officers to disperse seafront vagrants.

Insp Gillott said: "I share this award with the people I have worked with at Weymouth East.

"With few resources and an increasing workload, reflected in the rise in the amount of drinking establishments in town, their enthusiasm and hard work has been second to none."

Insp Gillott's first commendation came over 10 years ago when, as a sergeant working in Bournemouth, he plucked a baby to safety who had been held hostage by a knifeman.