Three Valleys Housing Officer wins Police Award

A housing officer from Three Valleys Housing has been honoured by Derbyshire Constabulary for helping to transform a graffiti-strewn wasteland in Ilkeston.

Mandy Seaton received a Divisional Commander’s Commendation Award, usually reserved for police employees, for organising and leading the community clean up of Donner Crescent at Cotmanhay as a key partner in Operation Relentless.

She was recognised for working in partnership with Erewash Borough Council, Groundwork Derbyshire, the local Community Safety Partnership and neighbourhood police team on the three-day clean-up in October.

Mandy rolled up her sleeves to help clear fly tipped rubbish, cut overgrown grass, remove graffiti and replace broken fencing as part of the clean up project team.

In an awards night held at police divisional headquarters in Ripley that showcased the success of the project, Chief Superintendent Garry Sherwood told Mandy: “You are commended for your commitment and dedication to deliver community based initiatives to improve public confidence and safety in the Erewash area during the 2009 Operation Relentless period.

“You organised and led the community clean up at Donner Crescent, engaged with local residents and co-ordinated the work of partner agencies to clear a large piece of overgrown land being used for dumping. It was of great concern to the local community. Your enthusiasm and drive has improved the environment for the residents of Cotmanhay.”

Mandy Seaton said: “I was delighted to receive the award, which recognises Three Valleys Housing’s commitment to tackling antisocial behaviour in areas where we manage properties in order to provide attractive and safe places for our residents to live.”