POLICE and civilians rubbed shoulders yesterday at a ceremony honouring their dedication and public spirit.

Coming from across the North Yorkshire force's western area, they gathered at the Rose Manor Hotel, Boroughbridge, North Yorkshire, where they were presented with special commendations by the area commander, Chief Superintendent Andy Parker.

PC Paul Davenport was honoured for his professional dedication and tenacity in dealing with a road accident involving 60 vehicles on the A1 at Boroughbridge.

Members of the public Teresa Reed and Michael Purvis were awarded commendations for their actions at the scene of a serious assault and help in bringing to justice the offenders, who both received substantial terms of imprisonment.

A commendation went to PC Mark Ayre for his professional and diligent response on finding a sick man in a car at an isolated site. The man would have died without PC Ayre's intervention.

Detective Inspector Dai Malyn and Detective Constable Chris Burton were honoured for their thorough and professional work in investigating a robbery at a DIY store in Richmond. The offender was jailed for six years.

PC Gary Owen was commended for the exceptional commitment, professionalism and skill he has demonstrated in carrying out his duties in the Colburn area.

* Nine constables were also commended for the successful completion of the police probationer programme. They were Rachael Denny, Neil Wardrop, Fiona Earl, Steven McCarthy, Alistair Gill, Paul Cording, Jason Tennant, Mark Harris and Helen Heatlie.