POLICE officers who responded to a ‘rampaging’ army truck driver have been given an official commendation.

It comes after a September 2023 incident in Norton Fitzwarren when a man made threats with a chainsaw before driving a half-ton US Army truck through a police roadblock and speeding off with officers in pursuit.

A woman police officer was reported to have “narrowly escaped death” after managing to avoid the oncoming vehicle by jumping into a coach house parking bay on Station Road.

Geoff Marshall, 41, was sentenced to prison for two years after admitting one charge of assault by beating, 11 counts of criminal damage, and one of dangerous driving in connection with a series of incidents in the village on Sunday, September 10.

A number of police units, including firearms officers and a helicopter responded to the incident, before it came to an end on M5 overbridge at Walford Cross, after the driver exited the vehicle and climbed over the railings.

Quick thinking lorry drivers staged an impromptu intervention by halting their vehicles below the bridge, and were praised by the police for “assisting a person in crisis.”

In court, Marshall said he was suffering ‘significant mental health problems’ as a result of marriage difficulties. In a statement Marshall said: "I never intended to harm anybody and I never intended to do any damage either.”

Judge Edward Burgess KC imposed a two-year custodial sentence on Marshall and a two-year driving disqualification, at the end of which he would have to take an extended test.

Now officers who dealt with the dangerous incident have received recognition for their efforts. In the ‘Outstanding Police Awards 2024’ the teams involved in tackling the truck have been commended for their ‘excellent leadership and teamwork.’

Announcing the award a spokesperson for Avon and Somerset Police said: “This commends the excellent leadership, teamwork and actions of those involved in resolving a dangerous incident in Norton Fitzwarren, bringing a successful prosecution and keeping the community informed.

“It happened on 10 September 2023, after officers responded to a woman in fear for her safety and a man drove a truck into police vehicles and other property and made threats with a chainsaw.”

The awards were handed out at a ceremony held on March 12. Chief Constable, Sarah Crew said: “Tuesday shone a light on the lengths to which officers, staff and our volunteers have gone to make a positive change to those around them every day.

“Behind every award is an individual or team who has made a remarkable difference. We heard stories of compassion that have touched lives, tales of innovation that have transformed processes, and throughout all a journey of dedication that has left a lasting impact on policing and the communities we serve.

“Every success in our force is thanks to our people and it was fantastic to have so many colleagues join us at the event. I feel immensely proud to be Chief Constable of a service filled with such exceptional individuals.”