A retired police sergeant from Harpenden has been praised for his work during a high profile political event.

Mark Hill, 50, was one of four officers honoured for their hard work, commitment and bravery during the Bilderberg Group meeting in June 2013 in Watford.

The officers were part of Operation Discuss - Hertfordshire Constabulary’s response to the conference held at the Grove Hotel.

A £1 million police operation was launched for the three day secretive conference, which included a no-fly zone and roads around the hotel being closed with anti-terror laws.

The conference saw powerful politicians such as the Prime Minister, Chancellor George Osborne, shadow chancellor Ed Balls and cabinet minister Ken Clarke spending time at the exclusive venue with leading global figures.

Ultimately the event went ahead and the Constabulary was congratulated by both the event organisers and the protest groups for the policing style and innovative approaches taken.

The other officers given Chief Constable’s Commendations at an awards ceremony at Police Headquarters in Welwyn Garden City were Temporary Chief Superintendent Simon Hawkins, Temporary Chief Inspector Chris Savage and Inspector Richard Beechey.

Chief Constable Andy Bliss closed the awards by saying: "We could not hope to do this without the excellent staff and volunteers who work for us.

"It is important that we properly recognise the commitment and achievements of our staff and tonight has enabled us to do that - but it is also an opportunity to reflect on the importance of teamwork involving not only our colleagues here tonight but the many other fine men and women who work alongside them - including those who are out there this evening - doing the job."