Two police officers from Staffordshire have been honoured for their extraordinary bravery after confronting and disarming individuals armed with weapons during a volatile city centre protest.
Unarmed Officers Confront Armed Individuals
On August 3 last year, a planned protest in Hanley city centre rapidly escalated into a dangerous situation. PCs Bethany Cottrell and Natalie Millward, both part of the Stoke-on-Trent south local policing team, were on duty as police liaison officers. Their role was to act as a bridge between the force and the community, meaning they were not equipped with the protective gear issued to public order units.
Despite this significant disadvantage, when they saw people brandishing items including gardening forks, baseball bats, and timber, the duo did not hesitate. They ran towards the threat, demonstrating what superiors later called 'unwavering courage'. Through physical intervention, they managed to successfully disarm the individuals, putting the safety of the public before their own.
A Voluntary Decision to Stay in Danger
Recognising the escalating peril and their lack of protective equipment, the incident commander ordered their withdrawal from the immediate area. However, showing remarkable selflessness, the officers chose not to retreat to safety. Instead, they voluntarily assumed new roles on the periphery of the event to continue supporting their colleagues.
Chief Inspector Dave Barrow, of the Stoke-on-Trent south local policing team, stated: "Their unwavering courage and selflessness minimised violence and prevented serious injury to countless individuals. In the face of extraordinary danger, they sacrificed their own safety to protect others."
Recognition at the Your Heroes Awards
The officers' actions were formally recognised at a black-tie ceremony on November 27. They won the Uniformed Hero category at the Your Heroes Awards, which celebrates unsung heroes across Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire. This category specifically honours those in uniform who perform acts far beyond their standard duties.
"I am extremely proud of both officers," Chief Inspector Barrow added. "I am glad that they have been recognised for their extraordinary bravery during the challenging circumstances which faced teams last summer." The awards highlight the often-overlooked dedication of public servants who go to exceptional lengths to ensure community safety.
