The Bridge Attendants on the Clifton Suspension Bridge have been honoured by Avon & Somerset Constabulary for their professionalism and dedication in supporting vulnerable people.
At a presentation ceremony on 19 June 2018 the Bridge staff were presented with Certificates of Commendation and individual Letters of Thanks by Chief Constable Andy Marsh QPM and Police and Crime Commissioner for Avon & Somerset, Sue Mountstevens. The ceremony was attended by family members of the awards recipients, Trustees and bridge staff.
The Certificate of Commendation read: “In recognition of your support and professionalism when dealing with challenging incidents on the Clifton Suspension Bridge. You show remarkable support to our police colleagues and provide exceptional care to those in need.”
The Bridge is staffed by a team of 13 attendants who provide an important management and security role for the Bridge and its users 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
Chief Constable Andy Marsh QPM said: “It was an honour to meet the staff who work at the Clifton Suspension Bridge, along with their family members and trustees, and present them with well-deserved awards.
“The attendants have dealt with some very distressing incidents, many involving vulnerable people at their lowest point and in the greatest need of support.
“They’ve dealt with these incidents with impressive professionalism and compassion and the assistance they continue to provide to our officers is invaluable.”
Bridge Master Trish Johnson added: “On behalf of the Trustees and all our staff I would like to thank the Chief Constable and the Crime Commissioner for recognising the contribution our attendants make and for visiting the Bridge to personally present these awards.
“Our staff were thrilled to be publicly honoured and to meet them. We have always been aware of the great contribution they make but it is great that an external body also recognises it as well”.