GMP officer’s ‘great sacrifice’ recognised

A Queen’s Gallantry Medal for bravery has been awarded posthumously to Detective Constable Stephen Oake.

Mr Oake was working as a Special Branch officer for Greater Manchester Police (GMP) when he was killed taking part in a counter-terrorism operation on January 17, 2003.

The Queen’s Gallantry Medal is awarded for gallantry of an exceptional order. It is one of the bravery awards in the honours system that recognises selfless, brave acts undertaken in the prevention of crime or the arrest of dangerous criminals.

Colleagues and members of the public had called for Mr Oake’s bravery to be recognised following his death.

Stephen’s wife Lesley gave the following statement: “This is great news. Both I and the children and indeed, the wider family, are delighted to learn of the news that our much-loved Steve has been honoured in this way.

“Steve’s actions on that fateful day in January 2003 were typical of a man who was committed to his job and to his colleagues. We are extremely proud that his sacrificial act of bravery has resulted in this prestigious award.

“We accept this award not only on behalf of Steve but in recognition too, of the bravery of the many officers that were involved on that day.”

GMP’s Chief Constable Peter Fahy said: “These awards are given out only in exceptional circumstances and the whole force is pleased that Stephen’s great bravery has been recognised in this way.

“The public of Greater Manchester and his colleagues have always supported Stephen being given an award to recognise the great sacrifice he made as part of the national effort against the threat of terrorism.

“We are especially pleased for Stephen`s family who have faced the most traumatic of circumstances with great dignity and forbearance.”

Kamel Bourgass was sentenced to 22 years in prison on June 29, 2004, for Mr Oakes’ murder and the attempted murder of three other GMP officers.

Fallen officer Richard Gray and colleague Mat Crisp of West Mercia Constabulary are also being honoured with Queen’s Commendations for Bravery, which are given on merit of exceptional gallantry, achievement or service.

Mr Gray and Mr Crisp were both shot while on duty in May 2007; Mr Gray did not survive the incident.

The Queen’s Commendation for Bravery award will be presented to Mr Gray’s widow Mrs Jenny Lee-Gray and Mr Crisp by the Lord Lieutenant of Shropshire.

Chief constable of West Mercia Constabulary, Paul West, said: “It is very fitting that the commitment and dedication to public service demonstrated by Ricky and Mat has been honoured and recognised in this very special way. Their bravery in putting themselves in the way of harm to protect members of the public and their colleagues was truly outstanding and completely selfless. Regrettably, the honour bestowed on Ricky and Mat will inevitably be tinged with great sadness… none of us who knew Ricky will ever forget his heroism and ultimate sacrifice.”

Mr Crisp said: “It was a big shock to find out about the award. I am very honoured and proud to receive such a prestigious award.”

Mrs Lee-Gray said: “Ricky’s actions on that day are typical of the man he was. I am honoured and immensely proud to accept such a distinguished award on his behalf.”

Inspector Andrew Galbraith of the Police Service of Northern Ireland was also honoured with a Queen`s Commendation for Bravery for his handling of a public order incident in Belfast.