Hamilton’s Bryan is a top policeman

Jan 28 2010 by Kenny Smith, Hamilton Advertiser

A HAMILTON man was last week named Strathclyde Police’s officer of the year.

Bryan Kelly (40), a former pupil of St Blane’s Primary in Blantyre and John Ogilvie High School, received the honour in recognition of his part in operations to tackle drug dealing and gangland thuggery.

Bryan, a policeman for seven years and currently based at B division in Glasgow’s London Road, was top cop in a competition open to all 8000 members of Strathclyde Police.

His citation read: “The winner of this award has been recognised as having the ability to work with partner agencies to make our communities safer.

“He has shown the drive and determination and the majority of this officer’s focus has been aimed towards problems within the local community.”

The citation points out that over the last 12 months he has dealt with 88 enquiries resulting in 70 offenders being reported to the procurator fiscal. This does not include daily submissions of Fixed Penalty Tickets for offences.

His detection rate is 79.5 per cent with a very short enquiry time.

The citation continues: “The officer’s performance within a community policing team and pro-active unit has made a significant impact on the drugs problem in a deprived area, as well as tackling gang-related disorder with the use of the anti-violence behaviour regulation to close down the dwelling house of a notorious criminal family.”

Bryan said: “I’m absolutely delighted to win it; it’s come as a real surprise.

“I’ve been in the force for seven years and I love my job, so it’s been a great honour to be given this award.”

Proud son Aidan (6) added: “I’m really proud of my dad because he works hard and it’s great he’s won this.”

Divisional Commander, Chief Superintendent Wayne Mawson, added: “Bryan is an officer of outstanding quality, who is totally committed to his role and to his community and he thoroughly deserves this accolade.

“His abilities and expertise have long been recognised by his fellow officers and we are proud to have him as one of our own here at the division.”

PC Kelly lives in Hamilton with his wife Susanne, and children Aidan, Luke (3) and Sofia (four months).

FAMILY MAN: award-winning cop Bryan, wife Susanne and their proud children.

WELL-DESERVED: Bryan with his award.