A group of quick-thinking passers-by and police officers have been honoured for their life-saving actions after helping a distressed woman to safety from a road bridge over the A21 near Tunbridge Wells.
On October 3, 2024, Sarah Evans and Sophie Hart noticed the woman standing on the wrong side of the railings on a footbridge above the busy road. The two women calmly engaged with her while relaying vital information to emergency services via a 999 call, enabling officers to arrive quickly.
Upon arrival, PC Sean Kavanagh and a colleague acted decisively to pull the woman to safety, preventing what could have been a tragic outcome.
At a recent West Kent Divisional Commander’s Awards Ceremony, all four individuals were formally recognised for their bravery and selfless actions.
Police Chief Commends ‘Tremendous Humanity’
Chief Superintendent Neil Loudon, who presented the awards alongside Kent High Sheriff Dr Gillian Fargher and MP Katie Lam, praised Evans and Hart for showing “tremendous humanity” in a challenging and emotional situation.
“Sophie and Sarah showed tremendous humanity towards this clearly distressed woman and should be incredibly proud of their actions,” he said.
“The officers’ brave and decisive actions ensured this woman was brought to safety, preventing a devastating outcome.”
The ceremony, held at the Kent Police College, also honoured officers for outstanding professionalism, dedication, and bravery in tackling crime and protecting the public.
Other Officers Recognised for Outstanding Service
Among the 52 commendations, officers were recognised for their efforts in major criminal investigations, including:
- Detectives DC Andy Julier and DC Celia King, who led a 24-hour investigation securing evidence against Cameron Jeffrey, responsible for multiple knifepoint robberies in Staplehurst, Cranbrook, and Hawkhurst. Jeffrey was jailed in December 2024 for nearly five years.
- PC Gareth Salter and PC Butler, who showed exceptional bravery when they confronted and tackled two armed burglars wielding crowbars at a supermarket in New Ash Green in November 2024.
- PC Scott Morgan and a colleague, who disarmed a knife-wielding suspect holding a hostage inside a Tunbridge Wells flat on July 21, 2024. The officers gained entry, neutralised the threat, and safeguarded the victim.
- PC Daniel Carroll, a probationary officer, who managed a complex crime scene at an attempted murder linked to a house party in Maidstone. Despite over 70 people present, he carried out rapid investigations and swiftly identified and arrested the suspect.
Community Policing Recognised
The awards also highlighted the critical role of community policing, with special praise for PCSOs tackling antisocial behaviour and working with local councils to reduce crime in Maidstone.
PCSO Sarah Stanley was commended for her dedication to helping young people in Tunbridge Wells, working closely with schools, parents, and local authorities to educate and protect children from various threats.
“PCSO Stanley’s innovative approach and dedication to supporting young people have made a significant impact in reducing crime and harm,” said Chief Supt Loudon.
‘Courageous, Selfless, and Professional’
In his closing remarks, Chief Supt Loudon praised the outstanding bravery and commitment of all the award recipients, stating:
“Being on the front line means having to be courageous, selfless, and highly professional—qualities our officers demonstrate in abundance daily.
“It is important we recognise their dedication to duty, their willingness to confront danger, and their unwavering commitment to protecting the public.”
The awards serve as a powerful reminder of the extraordinary bravery and professionalism shown by both officers and members of the public in keeping communities safe.
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