A FAMILIAR face in Crickhowell is one of six PCSOs shortlisted for a Dyfed-Powys community award.
PCSO Billy Dunne has received nominations from the people he has helped on his beat for the police force’s #WeCare Award.
Billy has been a PCSO in Crickhowell for three years and previously spent 11 years as a special constable in the town before spending a year as a custody detention officer in Brecon.
He has taken a lead role in pushing forward initiatives such as Community Speedwatch and Farm Watch.
Delighted to learn of his nomination, PCSO Dunne said: “I feel humbled that members of the community have taken the time to nominate me for the We Care award. I love my job and relish the opportunity to work these communities, and cannot believe that I was nominated. However to be on the shortlist is a credit not to me, but the community that I work, and live in.”
One of his nominations said: “PCSO Billy Dunne is the most community-minded police officer I have ever encountered and lives up to the name of Community Support Officer in every way. He somehow manages to engage with people at every level and it never ceases to amaze and delight to see him with people in my village and beyond in Crickhowell.
“It is testament to Billy that everyone actually knows him as Billy. Beyond that, I can confidently say he is very professional, always does what he says he will do and if he can’t then he will carefully explain the reason why. I don’t know anyone who is more deserving of this award than Billy.”
Another described him as a “brilliant bobby” and said: “Billy is more than just the face of policing in Crickhowell. He knows the community and we know him. He’s helpful, approachable, knows when and where to be seen, and not seen.”
Dyfed-Powys Chief Constable Mark Collins said: “We have been overwhelmed with the response from members of the public for our #WeCare award. This award means such a lot to the winner and the force as a whole as it is chosen by members of the public who our officers serve on a daily basis and have had a positive impact on their lives.
“Some of the stories shared were truly touching, and the fact our officers stand out in the minds of people they have helped for many years speaks volumes for their compassion, enthusiasm and professionalism.
“I would like to thank everyone who took the time to nominate a member of the force for this award, and I look forward to presenting it to the winner on March the 23rd.”
The awards will be presented at the force’s annual awards ceremony at its headquarters in Camarthen on Friday, March 23.
Members of the public were able to vote for their choice in an online poll until February 9 this year.