A police custody officer who goes the extra mile to help suspects in need of support has scooped an award.

Detention Officer Sam Stevens (pictured) and his colleagues are the first point of contact for people entering custody

Sam, who spends most of his 12-hour shifts at Mansfield Custody Suite, has a reputation for descaling situations with his calm and friendly manner.

He was named Nottinghamshire Police’s Detention Officer of the Year, an award named in honour of former detention officer Maurice Rigley.

Sam said: “It means a lot to me. All detention officers do a hard job, so they all deserve this award in my opinion. It’s nice to be recognised.

“We’re not here to judge anyone and it’s important to look past the allegations that’s led to them being in custody, as they haven’t been charged or convicted at that stage.

“It’s simply a case of treating people fairly and looking after their welfare and needs while they’re in custody.”