A dedicated police officer has been formally recognized for her pivotal role in a major initiative to enhance safety across Lancaster and Morecambe. PC Katie Foster was honored with a Divisional Commander’s Commendation for her outstanding contribution to community policing during the annual Lancashire Police West Division Awards held on September 24.
PC Foster, a familiar face on the beat in Morecambe town centre, spearheaded a multifaceted project aimed at rooting out illegal and unsafe business practices within the region. By fostering close collaboration with several key agencies—including Immigration, Trading Standards, Environmental Health, and the Lancashire Fire Service—Foster was able to coordinate a robust enforcement strategy. Her efforts resulted in a string of arrests, the widespread seizure of illegal goods, and the issuance of over £900,000 in financial penalties against offending businesses.
The awards ceremony, which celebrated the achievements of officers, staff, and partner organizations from across the West Division, highlighted a variety of successes in policing, from domestic abuse support to anti-social behavior reduction.
Among the other honorees was Detective Constable Alexis Walch, who was awarded the Gordon Connelly Cup for her exemplary work on a complex domestic abuse case. The Problem-Solving Award was presented to the team behind Operation Babylon, led by Detective Inspector Brittany Shaw. This initiative has been instrumental in tackling knife crime, child criminal exploitation, and the influence of County Lines drug networks on vulnerable young people in the area.
Individual acts of bravery were also at the forefront of the ceremony. Special Constable River Barber and Police Constable Tegan McLaughlin received Divisional Commander’s Commendations for their exceptional courage and professionalism during high-risk incidents involving violent offenders. Additionally, the Fylde Neighbourhood Policing Team was recognized for “Project SeaBreeze,” an initiative that has successfully delivered significant reductions in retail crime and anti-social behavior across Fylde’s coastal communities.
Temporary Chief Superintendent James Black, West Division Commander, used the occasion to reflect on the high standards maintained by his colleagues.
“These awards are an opportunity to recognize and celebrate the exceptional dedication, hard work, and professionalism shown by our staff every day,” Black said. “Across the organization, colleagues go above and beyond to support victims, protect vulnerable people, and serve our communities with compassion and commitment.”
He emphasized that those recognized represent the “very best of policing,” noting that their unwavering focus on delivering high standards of service directly improves the lives of residents.
“I am incredibly proud of all those who were nominated and honored at these awards,” Black added. “I would like to thank each and every member of our workforce for the contribution they make to keeping our communities safe.”
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