Two special constables, one from Falmouth and the other from the Helston area, have been honoured for their “commitment and dedication” to the communities they serve, particularly during this year’s storms.

Helston area officer SC Anthony Soady has worked in the special constabulary for 35 years – minus a one year gap – having first joined the force in 1979.

He was awarded a “certificate of service,” which recognises the commitment and service officers contribute to Devon and Cornwall Police and can be presented after ten years’ service.

During his years in voluntary service, SC Soady has been instrumental in helping tutor new recruits and working alongside his regular colleagues on response duties. Earlier this year he provided assistance during the flood alerts in his local area, at Mullion Cove.

SC Soady works closely with the neighbourhood teams and Neighbourhood Watch in Helston, carrying out reassurance visits and foot patrol in the more rural areas.

SC Inspector Andrew Duckham, who is based in Falmouth, was also presented with a Certificate of Service. He joined the Special Constabulary in 1986, was promoted to SC sergeant in 2002 and is now the temporary SC inspector for the Falmouth and Truro areas.

He was instrumental in assembling a team of officers to help during the storms which struck the area early this year and despite being actively involved in a working party around professional development, he still finds time to fulfil his duties as a special constable.

Marc Kastner-Walmsley, the chief officer for the Special Constabulary, said: “Special constables play a vital part in policing, notably by supporting their regular colleagues to make Devon, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly safe.

“Special constables work tirelessly, reducing the fear of crime by offering reassurance to residents and acting as a vital link between local communities and neighbourhood policing teams.

“I am delighted that special constables are being publicly acknowledged for their selfless, dedicated and professional contribution to Devon and Cornwall Police and the communities we serve.”