A POLICE officer and two staff members based at the Sellafield nuclear site have been given high praise for their work.

Chief Constable of the Civil Nuclear Constabulary, Simon Chesterman, has given out commendations to Sergeant Andy Bailey and senior project manager Sarah Charters for their roles in the Griffin Park Tactical Training Centre project.

He said that Andy and Sarah “dealt with a number of challenges that the project presented with professionalism, dedication and integrity throughout”.

Clare Chambers, health and safety advisor at the site, has also been commended for the part she played in delivering advice at a strategic, tactical and operational level during the pandemic.

Her “hard work and dedication” has helped members of the Civil Nuclear Constabulary stay safe during the crisis.

Chief Constable Chesterman said: “It was a privilege to recognise the excellent work and commitment of these three members of staff in ensuring that the Civil Nuclear Constabulary continued to deliver our vitally important mission. It was good to be able to thank them personally for their achievements.

"I am extremely proud of them and all of our employees for continuing to ensure nationally critical infrastructure, and ultimately the general public, remain safe.”

The Civil Nuclear Constabulary is the armed police force in charge of protecting civil nuclear sites and nuclear materials in England, Scotland and Wales.

It’s responsible for the armed protection of civil nuclear facilities and materials whether they are on site or in transit, with counter-terrorism a major part of its work.

The constabulary works in partnership with the nuclear industry, security agencies and regulatory bodies to deter attacks.

It also works with local police services and the Home Office.