Public Choice Award 2025 - have your say
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Members of the public are being invited to cast their votes for their police and fire service heroes in the 2025 Annual Awards.
Hosted jointly by North Yorkshire Police and North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service, the awards celebrate exceptional contributions made by officers, staff, and volunteers across both organisations.
From acts of bravery on the frontline to the dedication of those working behind the scenes, the awards shine a spotlight on the teams and individuals who go above and beyond to keep York and North Yorkshire safe.
Voting is now open for the Public Choice Award, giving the community a chance to choose who should receive the prestigious title of ‘people’s choice’. Finalists from each service have been selected from a range of award categories, showcasing the very best of both organisations.
Click a 'Vote now' button to go to the voting page for the North Yorkshire Police award. You can visit the North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service website to vote in their category.
The winners will be announced at a ceremony on Friday 14 November.
Steve Barker, North Yorkshire Police Volunteer
Steve has been a dedicated volunteer with North Yorkshire Police for over a decade, based at Eggborough Police Station. His commitment is legendary with him often contributing more hours than many full-time officers. He supports both the Rural Taskforce and Neighbourhood teams, regularly patrolling to tackle a wide range of incidents, with a particular passion for wildlife protection and anti-poaching efforts.
Despite periods of ill health, Steve has remained steadfast in his duties. His quick thinking and calm response were vital during a complex incident on the M62, where he managed the scene of two simultaneous road traffic collisions, including one involving a newborn baby. His actions helped ensure public safety until specialist units arrived.
Steve has also played a key role in locating a missing child and disrupting rural crime, including identifying a suspect involved in diesel theft. His proactive approach also extends to crime prevention. He recently led a team of volunteers in distributing SelectaDNA kits to farmers, helping protect rural property and livestock.
Beyond patrols, Steve is a visible presence at public events like the Great Yorkshire Show and Sherburn Gala, offering crime prevention advice and raising awareness about wildlife crime. He also coordinates a local WhatsApp group that connects rural residents with police, enhancing intelligence sharing and community safety.
Steve’s dedication, even in the face of personal challenges, and his wide-ranging contributions to policing and community engagement have made him a valued colleague within the force.
Online Child Abuse Team
North Yorkshire Police’s Online Child Abuse Team (OCAT) has demonstrated exceptional dedication and resilience in tackling some of the most distressing and complex crimes. Over the past 12 months, the team has secured convictions for over 60 high-risk child sex offenders and safeguarded more than 100 children, both in the UK and internationally.
Part of a 30-strong unit under our Safeguarding function, the OCAT comprises detectives, intelligence officers, and specialist staff. They are the primary investigators for referrals from CEOP (Child Exploitation and Online Protection Centre), the NCA (National Crime Agency), vigilante groups, and the NSPCC (National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children). Their work involves reviewing harrowing material to identify victims and offenders, often leading to international investigations and safeguarding outcomes. The OCAT’s intelligence officers prioritise the highest-risk cases, ensuring resources are focused where they are most needed.
Despite the emotional toll and often disappointing sentencing outcomes, the team remains focused on their mission. Their ethos is built on teamwork, mutual support, and a shared commitment to protecting vulnerable children. Humour and welfare support are vital to sustaining their mental health in such a demanding area of our business.
Established in 2018 and expanded in 2021, the OCAT has evolved into a highly effective and responsive unit. Their work not only brings offenders to justice but also prevents further harm to children across the world. In all their work they demonstrate professionalism, compassion, and a relentless pursuit of justice.
Jack Carter, Special Constable
Jack has demonstrated exceptional dedication, professionalism and impact since joining North Yorkshire Police in February 2025. At just 19 years old, Jack has volunteered over 300 hours, regularly working 12-hour shifts across all days and times – in many ways indistinguishable from a full-time officer.
Jack’s commitment is well-known amongst his colleagues; he stays on duty regardless of the task and consistently steps forward to support his team. One standout example of his compassion and resilience was when he spent six hours supporting a vulnerable, high-risk youth linked to child sexual exploitation. His patience and care ensured her safety during a time when resourcing could not have otherwise supported such intensive safeguarding.
Jack is known for demonstrating his initiative, assisting with live incidents, administrative tasks, and even delivering difficult death messages with empathy and professionalism. His communication skills with victims, suspects, and witnesses are outstanding, and he actively seeks opportunities to learn and grow, including submitting safeguarding referrals and supporting investigations.
Despite holding a civilian job, Jack regularly volunteers up to 40 hours a week and has become an integral part of Richmondshire policing. His aspiration to become a full-time officer is strongly supported by colleagues who recognise his maturity, drive, and potential.
Jack embodies the spirit of volunteer policing. He is selfless, dependable, and deeply committed to public service. His contribution has made a tangible difference to his community and the force.
Please note, voting closes on Sunday 26 October 2025. You will not be able to vote after this date.