Orkney police officer receives an award at the National Pubwatch Conference
Sergeant Simon Hay from Kirkwall Police Station in Orkney received a national award at the National Pubwatch Conference in Swindon on Tuesday, 7 March.
Pubwatch is a national initiative supported by police to reduce crime and disorder in pubs and clubs. It is a voluntary organisation who aim to achieve a safer drinking environment in licensed premises throughout the UK.
Sergeant Hay, who has 14 years police service, was presented with the top accolade of a Malcolm Eidmans Award for his outstanding contribution to supporting the Pubwatch scheme.
The award is named after a former Metropolitan Police Chief Superintendent Malcolm Eidmans QPM, who was a founding member of the scheme. It recognises the outstanding contribution made by a police officer or member of police staff in supporting their local Pubwatch scheme.
The scheme assists pubs and police reduce alcohol-related offences, underage drinking and anti-social behaviour by creating communications links between licensees. Those links are then used to easily share information and improve communication.
Sergeant Hay said: “It is a great honour and privilege to receive this award. The award is a reflection of the work carried out by everyone involved in the scheme for their ongoing efforts to ensure to ensure premises remain safe, not only for customers but also for staff, and the night-time economy in its entirety.
Being able to attend this Pubwatch conference has reignited the fire in my belly to get even more members involved. Pubwatch is not just for the pubs in Kirkwall. It is for any on sales licenced premises in Orkney. I would encourage anyone interested in joining to go to www.orkneypubwatch.co.uk and sign up.”
Chief Inspector Scott Robertson said: “It’s great for recognition to be given to Simon for his work with Pubwatch and reflects on the buy-in from the wider community and outstanding efforts of all involved.
A motion has also been lodged in parliament in recognition of his efforts which exemplifies his achievement. Well done Simon”
