Men risked own lives to save child trapped after crash

Two men who put their own lives at risk at the scene of a fatal collision on the M6 have been commended by Cumbria police’s chief constable.

Gavin Walsh and Shane Doherty were first at the scene of a multi-vehicle road traffic collision which occurred on the M6 at Tebay on October 15 last year.

The pair, with little thought to their own safety, approached a vehicle which was rapidly catching fire and rescued a young child trapped inside.

Five people died following the collision.

Chief Inspector Sam Turner, Cumbria police operational support, nominated the men for a chief constable’s commendation.

He said: “The actions of both men showed extraordinary courage and instinctive heroism during a harrowing and distressing situation.

“I had no hesitation in recommending them for this award, in recognition of their selfless and exceptionally brave actions.”

Commendations were also awarded to officers and staff who responded to the collision and those who carried out the post-collision investigation.

Those commended included:

PC Kimberley Bell
DC Vanessa Busby
DC Caroline Middleton
PC Jess Powley
PC Claire Whatman
PC Gareth Jones
PC Aimee Bish
Insp Kim Brown
PC Nick Johns
PC Terry Lindsay
Sgt Andrew Robinson
Sgt David White
DS Deborah Story

Chief Inspector Turner said: “This was a major incident which required co-ordination and effective management at the scene, as well as a professional and effective investigative response.

“In addition, the families of those involved had to be identified and supported through what was a terrible and heart-breaking incident.

“The resilience, teamwork, professionalism and leadership from all staff in such emotional and challenging circumstances was truly commendable.”

Police officers and staff commended for work on complex murder case

Police officers and staff who worked on a complex murder investigation have been commended by Cumbria’s chief constable.

Jack Crawley was sentenced on October 22 last year to life in prison for the murder of Paul Taylor.

The death of Mr Taylor was initially treated as a high-risk missing person but, due to the circumstances, a major incident room was quickly established and an investigation launched.

Extensive investigative work by a team of detectives uncovered evidence – including forensic evidence – which would help establish what had taken place and Crawley’s involvement.

Crawley was sentenced following the “no body” investigation and a lengthy trial.

Those receiving a commendation from Chief Constable Darren Martland included: