Two South Wales Federation members dedicated a Police Bravery Award to the police and emergency services colleagues who supported them.
Sergeant Holly Price and PC Jordan Rockey have won the Welsh regional award for saving the life of a man who had set himself alight.
They were presented with their award at a ceremony attended by politicians and senior police officers, including Home Secretary Yvette Cooper and Chief Constable Jeremy Vaughan.
The officers admitted they were surprised to receive the award.
Holly said: “We weren’t expecting it all after hearing the other stories.
“I just can’t believe it. We’ve gone from our local awards, to the Force awards, to the regional awards.
“We didn’t expect any of this. We went to work that day just to do our job.”
Jordan added: “There are so many brilliant nominees, so it’s a real honour to win this.
“It’s once-in-a-lifetime to win it.”
Jordan dedicated the award to colleagues who supported them at the incident and in the aftermath.
He said: “It’s amazing to be here, representing the team.
“It wasn’t just us that day, it was all the support we had after it.
“As soon as we raised the alarm, we had colleagues come to our help as well. We’re here to accept this on their behalf.”
South Wales Police Federation chair Phil Walker said: “Holly and Jordan ran towards danger, putting their own safety at risk, and there is no doubt that their quick actions saved this person’s life.
“It is another example of the dangers and risks faced every day by our members in doing their job.
“It also shows the actions they take to protect and serve the public.
“On behalf of South Wales Federation, I congratulate Holly and Jordan on their Police Bravery Award, it is thoroughly deserved.
“And I thank all of our members for their bravery, selflessness, and dedication to the job.”
This year’s overall winners of the Bravery Awards were Sergeant Gregory Gillespie, PC Luke Holden and PCSO Timothy Parry, from Merseyside Police.
The trio confronted and detained Axel Rudakubana after he killed three children at a dance class in Southport on Monday 29 July 2024.
Ms Cooper thanked all police officers for ‘keeping us safe’.
She said: “I’m hugely grateful, but I say this on behalf of people right across the country, we are hugely grateful for the bravery you show.
“Not just to face the really difficult things but then also to get back up the following morning and to face it all again.
“Thank you for doing that. Thank you for caring so much for the job that you do.
“And thank you so much for being part of the amazing thing that is British policing.
“Thank you for keeping us safe.”
The Prime Minister, Sir Kier Starmer, also spoke at the awards.
He said: “When faced with life-threatening risks, or an acutely distressing situation, most people would run or back away.
“But not you. You step up. You go towards the danger. You put the needs of others before your own. That’s why policing truly is a job like no other.
“It’s why my Government will always do everything in our power to support you in your vital mission.
“On behalf of our whole country, I want you to know we appreciate your skill, your service, and your sacrifice. Not just today, but always.”
The Policing Minister, Dame Diana Johnson added: “Congratulations to every single nominee. You deserve all the plaudits and praise you receive.
“Regardless of whether you won or not, I hope you are all feeling incredibly proud of yourself. Your family, friends, and colleagues are also incredibly proud of you.
“For all that you have done and continue to do, thank you.”
PFEW national chair, Tiff Lynch, also thanked and praised officers for their ‘unwavering dedication, never knowing what challenges they may face’.
Tiff said: “In the face of uncertainty, danger and adversity, they act with courage and professionalism – not for accolades or applause, but because they truly believe in their duty to protect others.
“Tonight, as we celebrate the 30th Police Bravery Awards, we come together to recognise those whose actions have gone far beyond what is expected. The stories we share are not just examples of bravery – they are powerful reminders of the extraordinary risks officers take to keep our communities safe.
“Whether confronting violent attackers, rescuing individuals from life-threatening situations, or making split-second decisions under immense pressure, these officers have shown exceptional courage and selflessness.”