VOLUNTEERS who operate Minehead's CCTV scheme have won an accolade for their commitment to safeguarding their local community.

The team was among a small group of winners in the latest round of Avon and Somerset Police and Crime Commissioner Sue Mountstevens' Pride Awards.

Some of the volunteers are pictured at police headquarters in Portishead. where they travelled with their families to receive certificates from the commissioner, who praised them for their work.

"The awards recognise those individuals who selflessly care about their community and are working to achieve great things while expecting no reward," Ms Mountstevens said.

"The commitment of the Minehead CCTV team on behalf of all of Avon and Somerset is greatly appreciated.

"The genuine passion and kindness displayed by these individuals is exemplary.

"I hope they are fully aware that they go a long way to making a difference in ensuring the communities we live in are safe."

As well as receiving certificates, the team was invited to have lunch with Ms Mountstevens and Avon and Somerset Constabulary's Chief Constable Nick Gargan. 

Afterwards, they were given a tour of the force service centre where 101 and 999 calls are taken.

A spokesman for the CCTV volunteers said the entire team was both surprised and honoured to win the award:

"Our nomination was extra special because it came from our mentor, a great trainer and a true friend, Keith Wigglesworth.

"It is fabulous to get the recognition, and hopefully we can use this as a platform to attract more volunteers to our already stretched team.

"This is fantastic exposure for us because the large proportion of people in Minehead don't know we operate there.

"It is great for the community to see the sort of work we do and hopefully people from all across West Somerset can see how rewarding a role with their local CCTV team can be."

Pictured at the awards presentation are, from the left, team members Lynn Parry, Colin Parsons, Stewart Lawrence and Shane Eckley with PCC Sue Mountstevens.