A postmistress who helped police catch two men who stole money from a pair of elderly brothers has been recognised by Beds Police.

Lynsey Webster was commended for her caring and public spirited actions at the J Division awards ceremony.

Mrs Webster, who is post mistress of Great Barford Post Office, contacted police after she was concerned about the excessive withdrawal of money from the accounts of two elderly and vulnerable brothers.

Officers investigated and found out the brothers were deceived into handing over large sums of money by a man posing as a police officer.

The offender was charged with burglary, fraud and impersonating a police officer, thanks to Mrs Webster's actions.

She was one of a number of people recognised at the ceremony, which were for both police officers and members of the public.

Daniel Hendrickson, an experienced CCTV control manager, was commended for his professionalism and expertise, which resulted in an arrest being made after a 19-year-old was stabbed in Bedford.

He was able to identify a possible suspect and track the suspect from further CCTV footage.

And 14-year-old Jack Browne was commended for his excellent communication skills and public spirited actions, which enabled police to arrest three men who were armed with a gun.

He gave full details of the vehicle, and a good description of the occupants, as well as calling back later when he spotted them again.

Det Sgt Jim Mallen, Det Con Andrew Boston and Det Con Barry Kibble, were jointly congratulated with PCs Vicky Adams, Sarah Fisher, Danny Howett, and Michael Barber.

They stood out for the professional and reassuring manner with which they dealt with an elderly lady who was burgled five times. The defendant subsequently received a sixyear custodial sentence.

Three PCs, Paul Willis, James Cannon and Elliot Kenna, were commended for their decisive and professional actions that saved the life of a vulnerable 14-year-old under the influence of alcohol and drugs, who tried to kill herself.

And PC Michael Williams was recognised for his outstanding performance and going the extra mile in dealing with an infant death.

Divisional commander Chief Supt Andy Street said: "Behind every successful organisation are dedicated staff, with excellent customer empathy.

"At a special ceremony we recognised and rewarded our officers who have given the extra mile and are a credit to the force."