COMMUNITY beat officer Sam Steele was invited to Downing Street for a reception with the minister of security, Tom Tugendhat.

PC Steele was nominated by Mark Jenkinson MP to attend an event celebrating local community safety champions.

Sam recently received a commendation from Cumbria’s Chief Constable Rob Carden for his hard work and determination to target anti-social behaviour in Maryport which he reduced dramatically.

Speaking on his visit to Downing Street PC Steele said: “It was an honour to represent Cumbria at this event and shine the light on the successes myself and other Community Beat Officers have had within our communities.” 

Chief superintendent Richard Quinn said: “Sam has been extremely dedicated in his role as Community Beat Officer for Maryport.

“This dedication has seen him significantly reduce anti-social behaviour in the area, gaining national attention.

“Sam has done this by building trust and confidence within the community and become a well-known face within Maryport. This has allowed him to understand the issues and take proactive action with the community, local businesses, and partner agencies to address the issues.

“He is a credit to the Constabulary, and we are pleased that his work has been recognised by the Home Office."

Cumbria’s deputy police, fire and crime commissioner, Mike Johnson, said: “PC Sam Steele has made a significant difference to Maryport since becoming the Community Beat Officer for the area in September 2022.

“I was able to meet with Sam earlier this year in Maryport, walk his patch and hear about all the positive work that he has done so I’m very pleased to see that he has been recognised by the Home Office for his dedication to our communities.”