A DUTIFUL Pcso from WGC has been named Police Community Support Officer of the Year for her work in tackling anti-social behaviour and crime in the town centre.

Pcso Kate Blenkin, who patrols WGC town centre and Handside wards, received the honour at the Hertfordshire Police Authority’s annual Safer Neighbourhood Awards.

Stuart Nagler, chairman of Hertfordshire Police Authority, paid tribute to Kate at the awards, saying: “Her efforts to organise various events for local groups have made a real difference, and she is truly respected and admired by all who know her.

“Kate should be really proud of her achievements.”

Since becoming a Pcso in 2006, Kate has been behind a number of community projects that has helped curb both anti-social behaviour and retail crime in the town.

She developed the “Girls Big Night In” project, which organises hair and make up demonstrations for young women that might otherwise participate in alcohol related anti-social behaviour.

The 47-year-old also worked with Waitrose to deliver crime prevention packs to shoppers, and purse chains to stop wallet snatchers.

A modest Kate said the award belonged to her colleagues, Pcso Mark Crane and Pc Joe Clapham, as much as herself.

She said: “It’s very nice to have the award, but it’s a team thing.

“Mark, Joe and I work very closely together and as a team, I cannot stress that enough.

“It’s their award as much as mine. I couldn’t do it all on my own – it’s too much work!”