Top cop lands medal from the Queen
Andy Turner and sons Sam and Ollie - Credit: Archant
A Sidmouth police officer’s 20 years of service have been recognised with a medal from the Queen.
Sgt Turner's medal is royal recognition - Credit: Archant
Sergeant Andy Turner was proud to receive the accolade in the presence of his two sons and partner – and dedicated it in part to his late mentor.
Sgt Turner was handed a long service and good conduct award, on behalf of Her Majesty, at a ceremony in Saltash.
The born-and-bred Sidmouth man began his career with the force two decades ago in St Austell and has served throughout Devon.
Sgt Turner has trained and mentored numerous officers and became Sidmouth’s neighbourhood policing team leader nearly seven years ago.
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He is currently seconded to Devon and Cornwall Police HQ at Middlemoor and is looking at resourcing in a force-wide change programme.
Sgt Turner got a commendation from the coastguard for his involvement in the MSC Napoli disaster in 2007.
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Earlier in his career he was awarded the Chief Constable’s Certificate of Commendation, the highest level of award the force can bestow, after helping catch a violent burglar while off-duty in Torquay – suffering injuries in the process.
“It was a proud moment – especially as I was able to take my two boys and partner with me,” said Sgt Turner of receiving his long service award.
“I had always wanted to join the police from the age of five.”
And it was the village postmaster in Newton Poppleford when he was a youngster who motivated Sgt Turner to achieve his ambition.
The late David Shepherd, a former Chief Inspector of the Metropolitan Police, retired to the village.
“He was the man that set me on my path and inspired me to do what I wanted to do,” said Sgt Turner.
“It is a shame he couldn’t be there for the medal ceremony.”
