MORE than 70 police officers and staff from the Cheshire Police Eastern area received commendations in Sandbach last week.

Among them were 45 people, including many Crewe officers, involved in an operation against drug dealing, which resulted in the arrest of almost 60 people and prison sentences totalling 135 years.

Others included three officers and a helpdesk officer whose work resulted in the arrest and conviction of two men for kidnap and wounding.

Also commended were two members of police staff and an officer who tracked down a young man who was starting fires in Crewe.

Other incidents earning accolades included three officers who prevented a possible murder and an officer who worked with partner agencies to set up a special court to deal with domestic violence.

Chief Superintendent Mick Garrihy, the Cheshire Police Eastern Area Commander said: “We have people who show dedication, skill, loyalty, clear thinking and, when needed, bravery in their efforts to keep the public safe.

“Team working, whether it is officers working with other officers, or with police staff or with other agencies and members of the public is the key to success and all the successes we are marking with these awards are the result of team work in one form or another.”