The widow of police officer Frank Mason has presented his Queen’s Gallantry Medal to Hemel Hempstead police station on the anniversary of his death.
It was awarded in PC Mason’s name after he was shot and killed while off duty walking his dog when he attempted to stop an armed raid in the town centre’s Bank Court.
PC Mason’s widow Jill Neaves said: “I will always be very proud of Francis and to see that 25 years after losing him, he is still remembered, shows that I was not the only one to think that he was an amazing person. I think it is important to remember that Francis did more than try to stop a bank robbery, he saved a life that day by allowing the security guard to get to safety. Many lives were changed that day forever.
“His colleagues and the public of Hemel Hempstead have always been thoughtful and supportive to those of us who loved Francis and that is why I would like his medal to rest here, where he and I had happy times together.
“He will be forever missed by all of us, his friends, colleagues and family but especially by his mother Margaret and I.
“I hope this medal inspires others to achieve extraordinary things.”
On Friday, Herts Constabulary, local dignitaries and PC Mason’s family gathered for a memorial service in his honour.
Before the service in Bank Court, The Frank Mason Award - given each year to an outstanding officer - was presented to PC Steve Roughton, who works in Hemel Hempstead on frontline responding to 999 calls.
In 2012 he had an 100 per cent attendance record, made 113 arrests and responded to 1,224 emergency calls.