Honour for woman who talked down young mum from Scammonden Bridge

Gemma, pictured above at this year’s awards ceremony, first received the accolade in 2015 after talking a suicidal man down from Scammonden Bridge.

And she has been recognised again for similar actions following an incident in May last year.

The woman was on the wrong side of the safety barrier at Scammonden Bridge when she was spotted by Gemma, who then got out of her car and approached her.

As the girl tried to make her way to the centre of the bridge. Gemma blocked her route to the carriageway of the motorway and held on to the girl whilst opening conversation.

An off-duty police officer, Inspector Chris Norbury, stopped and called in colleagues. The Inspector then later nominated Gemma for the commendation.

Gemma’s partner James Cook said: “Gemma is tiny but she has the most amazing physical and mental strength. I am incredibly proud of her for helping this young mother.”

Other inspirational police officers and members of the public who showed bravery, compassion and tenacity in protecting the vulnerable, detaining criminals and bringing them to justice were commended in the annual Kirklees District Commander’s Awards.

A courageous member of the public whose selfless actions saved a distressed woman from harm, neighbourhood policing teams who put themselves in volatile and dangerous situations to protect members of the public and specialist teams of officers whose expertise are making Kirklees safer by removing firearms and drugs off the streets were among those commended in a special ceremony at Huddersfield University.

Chief Constable Dee Collins also attended the evening praising the members of the public and officers and staff who showcased incredible community spirit and bravery to assist people in need.

Chief Superintendent Steve Cotter, District Commander of Kirklees District Police, said: “This is my favourite night of the year and a chance for me to say thank you to all those who contribute to protecting our communities and making them feel safer. After an extremely challenging year, we have once again seen officers, staff and residents go above and beyond in our District in doing their part to help protect those most in need.

“Some of these awards have also been given for the care officers have shown to vulnerable victims, and I am very proud of each and every one to see the compassion and dedication colleagues continue to give, even when faced with harrowing circumstances.

“Our colleagues have demonstrated they are truly outstanding in their fields and I cannot think of a better way to champion your hard work and courageous acts.

“Members of the public within our District received commendations for their outstanding acts of kindness, selflessness and bravery too and I would like to say a personal thank you for your actions. They are all fantastic examples of how we as a Police Force can work alongside our communities and continue to make Kirklees safer.

“It makes me feel extremely proud to have the pleasure of hosting such an evening and recognising the incredible work of our colleagues, partner agencies and members of the public do to support and protect our communities.”