A POLICE officer who provided life support for casualties at the scene of a catastrophic car crash was among those honoured at a special ceremony.

Constable Sam Verity was one of several officers commended for their bravery at the scene of the harrowing collision on the A37 on Friday May 8, 2015.

The head on smash involved six people, all suffering critical injuries, and one person who had died at the scene.

PC Verity worked tirelessly to provide life support, while other officers helped paramedic crews by driving ambulances.

The bravery and devotion of PC Verity was recognised on Thursday July 21 at the Cobham Sports and Social Club in Wimborne with a Chief Constable’s Commendation.

It was part of an awards ceremony during which 33 officers, staff and members of the public were honoured for their work keeping Dorset safe.

The honours, which also included the Police Long Service & Good Conduct Medal, Police Staff Long Service Medal, Crown Court Commendations and Certificates of Service, were presented by Chief Constable Debbie Simpson and High Sheriff Sir Philip Williams.

Constables Jason Cartridge and Lisa Harrison, Sergeant David Moore and Detective Constable Gerald Merchant were presented with the Police Long Service and Good Conduct Medal, whilst police staff member Lyndsay Russell received the Police Staff Long Service Medal.

A number of individuals received a Chief Constable’s Commendation.

Police Constables Jess Pearcey, Scott Janes, Christopher Burridge, Grant Hancox, Jonathan Park, Steve Harrison and Faye Law, Police Sergeant Sam Goom and Chief Inspector Stewart Dipple among others, were recognised for their professional response to a 999 call on Saturday 15 August 2015.

All of the other officers involved in the horrific crash on the A37 with PC Verity were also commended for their actions at the scene.

Crown Court Commendations were awarded to a team of officers for their role in the manhunt for the head of an Organised Crime Group involved in the large scale supply of class A drugs throughout Dorset and the UK.

Two further individuals who have recently left the Force received the Certificate of Service in recognition of their contributions to policing in Dorset since 1974.

Chief Constable Debbie Simpson said: “These awards are a wonderful opportunity to recognise the hard work, professionalism and selflessness that our officers and staff contribute to Dorset Police, as well as the quick thinking and brave actions of members of the general public.

“All individuals are to be commended for their contribution to keeping Dorset safe, often in highly stressful situations.”