A special constable who is still working despite undergoing major surgery has been named Essex's officer of the year.

John Butler, known to his pals as Bernie, will be presented with the Norman Dooley trophy for specials by Chief Constable David Stevens on Sunday.

The 57-year-old, who works the Laindon patch, was diagnosed with bowel cancer last August.

He is now recovering at home following a difficult operation but is determined he will soon be back at the station.

John, a retired butcher, joined the specials five years ago.

He was sent to Laindon and took on responsibility for the Noak Bridge area, working two or three days a week.

John, of Martindale Avenue, Basildon, said: "People recognise me all the time. I enjoy going out and meeting them.

"I became a special because it's something I'd always fancied doing. I wanted to help the community and I've enjoyed it tremendously. I'm certainly excited about receiving the award."

In fact John, a married father-of-three, is so well-known in the area when he's not on duty, locals regularly ask police: "Where is the officer we normally see?"

Long service awards will be handed to a number of specials, including South Woodham Ferrers beat supervisor Gary Hardman, Rayleigh beat supervisor Lesley Jones, Southend beat supervisor Brenda Yee-King and Benfleet special constable Ian North, who have each clocked up nine years duty.

A very special copper - trophy winner John Butler

Picture: MAXINE CLARKE

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