A FARMER’S union has rewarded a dedicated policeman for uniting the Knutsford community in the fight against rural crime.

PC Mike Dawber, of Knutsford Police, was crowned Best Country Crime Fighter 2014 for the North West by NFU Mutual at an awards ceremony in Saddlers Hall, London, on October 9.

With the help of his team, PC Dawber has delivered a range of crime prevention initiatives, including the successful Knutsford Rural Watch scheme, which has led to a significant reduction in farm crime in the Knutsford area.

PC Dawber’s unflinching dedication, which included sitting through the night in rural lanes and reviewing hours of CCTV footage, also helped convict a gang who stole £2m worth of plant and agricultural machinery in Knutsford last year.

On receiving the award, PC Dawber said: “I am proud to accept this accolade on behalf of everyone in the team who has invested so much time and effort in the fight against rural crime. It is a vocation which is both demanding and rewarding.

“Communicating effectively with people who live and work in the countryside helps us stay one step ahead of the criminals. It would be impossible for the scheme to do what it does without the support of the rural community we serve.”

As well as being presented with the prestigious title, PC Dawber received a cheque for £500 from NFU Mutual to help fund future anti-crime initiatives in the North West.

Richard Percy, Chairman of NFU Mutual, said: “As part of the fabric of country life, we have a responsibility to offer continued support to rural communities in their on-going fight against crime.

“PC Dawber has managed to unite the community in their fight against crime, through perseverance and creativity, which has not only earned him the respect of the local community but contributed to the neighbourhood being a much safer place.”