Blue Light Disco is a shining success
Published 12 Jan 2012 16:00
Share this
click to enlarge
CONGRATULATIONS! George and Russell with the award.
THEY may sound like a dance troupe, complete with rhinestone bellbottoms and sequined jackets, but Helensburgh's Blue Light Disco team have been making huge strides in the area of community relations.
The joint policing initiative between the Ministry of Defence Police (MDP), Royal Navy Police, and Strathclyde Police has built a rapport with youngsters in the local community by holding regular discos in Churchill Square's Drumfork Centre.
And the team's hard work and dedication was recognised at the highest level within the Ministry of Defence recently with the presentation of a MoD People Award.
The awards celebrate and reward the contributions of members of the MoD who, often selflessly, improve and inspire others and make a difference.
The Blue Light team received their award in the "Community Involvement" category.
The team was represented by MDP Sergeant George Smart and Constable Russell White during an award ceremony at MoD Main Building in London.
Sergeant Smart, who was the originator of the initiative, said: "The MoD Police, our partner agencies and dedicated volunteers, have strived to make the Blue Light Discos a great success.
It is really great that the hard work of the team has been recognised by the MoD.
"The disco regularly attracts around 240 young people from the local area. It has broken down barriers and provides a safe environment for our youngsters to enjoy themselves."
Beginning in 2008, the Blue Light initiative has been a huge success for the MoD Police and partner agencies.
Previously released figures show it has helped significantly decrease instances of anti-social behaviour. Secondary school-age youngsters are breathalysed and searched on entry and get to meet community police officers and others who can provide them with support and advice.
This article appeared in Helensburgh Advertiser 12 Jan 12
Return to the main index, get more from this section or browse our News archives.
