The search is on, once again, for Derbyshire's bobby of the year. Anyone who has had dealings with the police during the past twelve months is invited to nominate their favourite officer by writing to the Chief Constable. The county's most popular bobby has been chosen annually since 1986 when the then Chief Constable, Mr Alan Smith, provided a large silver cup to be awarded each year to the winner. A replica, provided by the Police Authority, is given to the successful officer to keep. The contest for the Chief Constable's Cup is open to anyone serving in the force, including officers working on community beats, juvenile liaison, traffic, CID or any other department.
Any police officer is eligible for nomination.
The winner will take part in the National Community Police Officer of the Year award. We have always had a wonderful response from the public during the 15 years the contest has been in existence. Praise for officers has come from all age groups and all areas of the community. I am delighted that so many of Derbyshire's police officers are held in such high esteem by the people they serve. The winner will be selected by a panel of judges, comprising members of the Police Authority, chaired by Mr Coleman.