Sergeant Pete Williams and PCs Matt Reynolds and Gareth Green proudly represented South Wales Police at the National Police Bravery Awards, the 31st edition of the event.
The prestigious ceremony took place in London on Thursday 9 July and was hosted by the Police Federation of England and Wales (PFEW).
Pete, Matt and Gareth were nominated after their exceptional actions during a terrifying domestic disturbance, where they confronted an armed and highly aggressive suspect who threatened officers with a knife before brandishing a chainsaw inside a flat.
Despite the extreme danger, the trio worked together to contain the incident, protect those at the scene and safely bring the suspect into custody.
The officers made the trip to the capital, where they were joined by loved ones and attended an exclusive reception at 10 Downing Street with Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood ahead of the evening’s ceremony.
They were part of the Region 7 category on the night, which was won by nominees from Gwent Police.
Meanwhile, officers from the Metropolitan Police were announced as the overall winners for their response to the Hainault attacks in April 2024.
PFEW national chair Tiff Lynch opened proceedings with a passionate speech congratulating nominees from across England and Wales.
Heartbreaking vulnerability
She said: “Tonight, we will hear stories of individual valour – accounts of sensitivity and love in the face of the most heartbreaking vulnerability.
“Every nominee story is in the brochure on your table, and I ask that you take the time to read all of them. Because together, they paint a remarkable picture of modern policing.
“Policing asks a lot – you only have to look into the eyes of the people waiting for you to come home after every shift to understand that. It asks you to walk towards danger when everyone else is running away, and to make split-second, life-changing decisions in unpredictable circumstances.
“It asks you to be courageous and compassionate in equal measure.”
Moment to remember
While maintaining ‘this night is for celebration’, Tiff also paid tribute to officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty, adding: “I’d like to invite you all to stand with me for a moment to remember the police officers whose lives we have mourned in the last year.”
The Home Secretary later addressed guests with a video message, thanking nominated officers for their commitment to protecting the public.
She said: “It is my privilege to serve as your Home Secretary and to represent you all in government, especially on a day like today as we celebrate acts of heroism which would otherwise go unheralded.
“With these awards, we honour your bravery, and we think too of your colleagues on duty right now, as well as your families who share your sacrifice and the officers and staff no longer with us.
Facing danger
“Today is a chance to say what is too rarely said: thank you, on behalf of the whole country, for the danger you face and the lengths you go to in keeping the rest of us safe.
“I want to issue you with a firm instruction to put away your modesty and soak up the praise that is coming your way tonight.”
Deputy Chief Constable Jason Davies KPM also attended the awards ceremony, joining the South Wales Police nominees and their families in recognising the bravery and professionalism of officers from across England and Wales.
Reflecting on the occasion, South Wales Police Federation chair Phil Walker said he was immensely proud to see Pete, Matt and Gareth recognised on the national stage.
Courage and professionalism
Phil said: “The National Police Bravery Awards are a wonderful opportunity to recognise the extraordinary courage and professionalism our members show every day, often in the most dangerous and unpredictable circumstances.
“Pete, Matt and Gareth demonstrated exceptional bravery during an incredibly volatile incident, putting themselves in harm’s way to protect others. Their actions are a credit to South Wales Police and to the service as a whole.
“While every officer attends work simply wanting to help people and return home safely at the end of their shift, it is important that occasions like these shine a light on the remarkable things they do in the line of duty. We couldn’t be prouder of them.”
Federation secretary Mike George said the awards were about recognising not only acts of bravery, but also the commitment shown by officers every day.
Privilege
Mike said: “It has been a privilege to see our nominees celebrated alongside colleagues from across England and Wales. Hearing the stories from every force is a reminder of the incredible work police officers carry out every single day, often without seeking recognition.
“The support shown by their families, friends and colleagues is also an important part of these awards. Behind every officer is a network of people who share in the sacrifices policing demands, and it’s fitting that they are able to celebrate these achievements together.
“Pete, Matt and Gareth represented South Wales Police with great humility and professionalism, and everyone at the Federation is incredibly proud of what they have achieved.”