Two officers from Greater Manchester Police have been recognised in the Queen’s Birthday Honours this weekend as the monarch marks her 90th year.
Chief Constable Ian Hopkins and PCSO Gary Etchells have both received honours, with Gary receiving an MBE for his services to the Greater Manchester community and the Chief Constable being awarded the Queen’s Police Model (QPM) for distinguished service.
PCSO Etchells, 57 from Hollingworth, will become a Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire at a presentation ceremony at Buckingham Palace later this year having received his letter in April.
Gary has been a PCSO with GMP for over thirteen years, starting his career in Tameside . In 2006 Gary was stabbed in the neck by an angry tenant whilst assisting a housing association carry out an eviction notice.
During the incident Gary was stabbed with a carving knife, puncturing his carotid artery and damaging a nerve in his vocal cord permanently. Since then he has received numerous accolades including a bravery award for saving a man from drowning in a Tameside river. Now he’s set to receive his biggest yet.
The father of three said: “I’ve had lots of highs and some lows in my job over the last thirteen years but I wouldn’t change a thing – I love helping people and being out and about in the community.
“I am absolutely honoured to receive an MBE and I’m so shocked that I’ve been chosen, especially during such a special year for her majesty. It’s not really sunk in and I’ve had to keep it a secret from my family so no one knows yet! I’m really excited to go down to Buckingham Palace when the time comes.”
Chief Constable Hopkins has worked in GMP for eight years having previously worked in three different police forces during his 27 year policing career.
Greater Manchester Police Chief Constable Ian Hopkins said: “It is a fantastic honour, particularly on the Queen’s 90th birthday year. I am proud to lead Greater Manchester Police and work with some amazing people both colleagues and communities, helping to keep Greater Manchester safe.”
