Police Now officer PC James Manson, who joined Northumbria Police in 2021 via Police Now’s National Graduate Leadership Programme, has won Newcomer of the Year in the force’s annual Pride in Policing Awards.

Northumbria Police said: 

‘Here in Northumbria Police, we are passionate about making a real and lasting difference.

And one officer who is doing exactly that is PC James Manson who was recently honoured at our annual Pride in Policing Awards for going above and beyond after only joining the Force a year ago.

It’s safe to say that PC Manson has proven himself in this short space of time to be a real asset to the Force and, more importantly, to the communities we serve.

He is described by his peers as dynamic, brave and bold with his approach to solving problems and tackling the issues that matter most to people – most notably concerns about anti-social behaviour.

And he has already become an integral part of the Neighbourhood Policing Team which largely covers South Shields.’

Speaking after the event, PC Manson said: “I feel really grateful to have been recognised for this award – I wasn’t expecting it at all! I’m so thankful for my team – and all of the people who have supported me in my policing journey to date. All I ever want to do is make a difference in some way to people’s lives. I will continue to do my best for the people of South Tyneside – acting on their concerns and doing my best to keep people safe and fight crime.”

PC Manson was nominated for the award by his Sergeant Tom Strawbridge, who said: “James has had a positive impact on the area already. He has taken real ownership of issues reported by residents and continues to work tirelessly, most notably to help tackle anti-social behaviour.

“James really is committed to delivering an outstanding service to the communities that he serves. He is genuine, shows a ‘can do’ attitude every day and always comes to work with a smile on his face. To sum him up, James is everything that a police officer should be.

“Having achieved so much in such a short space of time, I can only imagine the difference he will make throughout his career.”