Super Bob Ford wins Regional Police Bravery Award

A NORTHUMBRIA Police officer who helped save lives during an explosive road accident while he was off-duty has been awarded a prestigious regional bravery award.

Humble hero PC Bob Ford pulled a woman from her car moments before it burst into flames after repeatedly returning to the smoking car to pull her free. “I was in the right place at the right time and able to help somebody out – and I am really pleased that I was able to do that,” said Bob

“We are never off duty. Looking round the room at the Bravery Awards and when you see and hear what everybody has done already you realise what a good police force we have got. It sounds a cliché, but anybody would do the same.

“I appreciate that I was put forward for this. I have never experienced anything like this before.  It’s been an absolutely fantastic day and experience. That money can’t buy. I am very humbled.”

Bob received his award from Irene Curtis, President of the Police Superintendents’ Association of England and Wales.

He added: “Would I do the same again? Of course. It is what we do. It is in our blood. In our nature. We want to help people. It sounds like a cliché but it’s true.”

Bob’s wife Kelly said: “I am immensely proud of Bob today. He can’t see that he is ab absolute hero. Everyone, friends and family are so proud of him. He is just so modest. “

64 police officers from England and Wales were honoured at the Police Bravery Awards for risking death and serious harm to protect the public.

Northumbria Police Federation Chairman Gordon Armstrong said: “These are just some of the fabulous examples of British policing at its best.

“Situations where officers go above and beyond, both on and off duty.

“Incidents where they are prepared to put their own lives at risk to protect the public they serve.

“Bob and his colleagues here today are an absolute credit to the service and it is truly fitting that their bravery is recognised here today.”

Steve Ashman, Chief Constable of Northumbria Police, said: “We are really, really proud of Bob and what he has done. It is a fantastic night where we can celebrate what is good about policing – a refreshing change in these current times.

“Sometimes we need to remind ourselves that we take an oath to protect the public and preserve life – and that is exactly what Bob did that day.

“An awful lot of what we do in policing is nothing to do with crime. It’s about looking after the public and being there when they need us. And that is exactly what Bob did that day.”