THREE police officers were recently recognised for outstanding service to the community by Hope Bay New Testament Assembly in Portland.

The lawmen, constables Derron Bembridge and Daniel Desgouttes and Inspector Julio Francis, who are assigned to the Hope Bay Police Station, were presented with awards two Sundays ago at the assembly.

“The police officers have worked hard in this community to maintain the peace and to protect us as a community, and for this we do appreciate your service and commitment,” Bishop Pearl Jones said in presenting the awards.

Hope Bay is the largest policing area in the parish and one of the largest in Jamaica, covering approximately 53 communities.

Francis, who spoke on behalf of the three, said: “Because of the partnership with the citizenry we have managed to accomplish a tremendous clear -up rate for serious and violent crime. I’m urging the citizens to continue supporting the police in our fight against crime and violence. I thank the Bishop Pearl Jones and her congregation for their recognition.”