TWO heroic Fleetwood officers have been presented with a prestigious award for their outstanding bravery.

The William Garnett Cup, presented annually to the officer or officers performing the most gallant deed in Lancashire, was awarded to Inspector Steve Armitage and PC Guy Young.

Inspector Armitage, now based at Constabulary Headquarters in Preston, told the Citizen: "It sounds like I'm blowing my own trumpet when I say this, but the cup has not been awarded for the past two years as it was felt there were no acts which merited such a prestigious award.

"We were extremely surprised to receive the award. It makes you feel very humble and, of course, proud."

The courageous pair arrested a man trying to break into Rossall School in May of last year.

As the officers arrived at the scene PC Young spotted a figure disappearing behind the pavilion. The fearless officers set off in pursuit when a man suddenly appeared from the darkness, carrying a holdall in one hand and with his other hand behind his back.

As PC Young challenged the man, he dropped the holdall and raised his left arm, brandishing a knife. Moments later, Inspector Armitage wrestled the man to the ground and in a violent struggle all three men ended up on the floor.

After his arrest a search revealed another knife, and the man pleaded guilty to burglary and possession of the weapons.

When asked whether he had worried for his own safety during the attempted attack, Inspector Armitage said: "It all happened so quickly. At the time my fears were for Guy's safety as it was obvious the man was going to stab him - that is why I launched myself at him.

"You only think about what could have happened afterwards and that's when you get a shock."

He was also keen to praise the deeds of his colleagues in the force saying: "There are dozens of brave deeds carried out by Lancashire police officers all the time so we really accepted the reward on their behalf - we were just fortunate to be noticed."

The pair's heroic act will now go forward to be considered for the National Police Bravery Award which will be presented next year in London.

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