A west Dorset police officer has been commended and recognised for his ‘exceptional’ contribution to keep the county safe.

Sergeant Matthew Whetham, a patrol sergeant in Bridport, has been awarded a 20-year Long Service and Good Conduct Medal.

An awards ceremony was held earlier this month in which officers, special constables and staff were recognised for going above and beyond, with 10 awards being presented by Chief Constable James Vaughan and Philip Warr, the High Sheriff of Dorset.

Matthew joined the Metropolitan Police in 1998. His career before joining Dorset Police in 2016 saw Matthew working on specialist gang and violence teams, being on duty in Hackney at the start of the 2011 London riots, policing special events such as Notting Hill Carnival and being seconded to the specialist operations room for six months during the London Olympics.

Chief Constable James Vaughan said: “I am privileged to be able to commend the hard work, dedication and professionalism of our officers and police staff.

“It is really important that every individual is recognised for their valuable contribution in preventing and detecting crime and supporting victims.

“Recognising our people who regularly go above and beyond is one of the best things I do as Chief Constable.”