OFFICERS at Hertfordshire Constabulary were honoured by the force's Chief Constable for their dedication.

The police Long Service and Good Conduct Medals are given to those officers who have completed 20 years of service and whose conduct and character have been exemplary.

Detective Sergeant Keith Cassells, 53, who works in Hoddesdon and lives in St Albans, joined Hertfordshire Constabulary after retiring from professional football.

His career has encompassed intervention, neighbourhood, CID, major crime, witness protection and professional standards and receieved a long service medal for his efforts.

Also receieving a long service medal is PC Lynne DaSilva, who works in Stevenage and lives in Welwyn Garden City.

Lynne joined the service in 1989, following in the footsteps of her father and brother.

When she moved from intervention to the Neighbourhood Team she found an area of policing she really enjoyed and in 2003 this was recognised when she received a good work minute, a commendation and was nominated as Neighbourhood Officer of the Year.

Lynne has also trained as a search and CBRN (chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear) officer, which meant travelling around the county and out of the force.

As a family liaison officer she finds this role very rewarding - she has been able to pass her enthusiasm and expertise onto other officers as Lynne is now a trainer and co-trains the family liaison course.

Detective Sergeant Nicola Marshall, who works in Hatfield and lives near Welwyn Garden City, is also celebrating receiving the same award.

Originally a Metropolitan Police Officer, Nicky moved to Hertfordshire Constabulary four years ago.

She has worked in several different roles but has gravitated back to her specialist area spending three years working with the Harm Reduction Unit before taking up her current role in the Safeguarding Adults from Abuse Team.

Chief Constable Frank Whiteley said: “The Police Long Service and Good Conduct Medal recognises the dedication of these officers, and I would like to take this opportunity to express my appreciation for their sustained loyalty.

“Shifts, long and unsociable hours, changes of duty at short notice and cancelled arrangements, are all part of the life of a police officer; to say nothing of the dangers faced by them.

“This affects family life, and I never underestimate the depth and importance of the support our officers receive from their families and friends throughout their service, and I would like to thank those who are here this evening to join them in this celebration of their achievement.”