A WARRINGTON police officer has been awarded the MBE in the Queen’s Birthday Honours.
Insp Phil Hodgson who is currently based in Frodsham and runs Cheshire’s Western Rural Neighbourhood Policing Unit was nominated for the award for services to policing.
The 44-year-old began his career in 1984 at the age of 18, shortly after leaving Sutton High School in Ellesmere Port.
He was a constable on patrol in Warrington Town Centre until 1986 when he moved to Widnes. He was promoted to 
sergeant in 1996 and became involved in community policing in Risley before being promoted to inspector in 2002.
He moved to Frodsham in 2005 and he and his team have worked to develop good links with the community, particularly the younger generation.
As a result of the team’s work on tackling youth crime and anti-social behaviour they were highly commended at the national Inside Justice Awards last year.
Insp Hodgson, said: “I was both shocked and deeply honoured when I received the letter. I have an excellent team and this in part is down to them.
“They work hard and are a creative and innovative group. Working in the Western Rural area has been a privilege. The community has been welcoming and enthusiastic about what we are trying to do.”
Insp Hodgson lives in Warrington and is married to Julie. He has two sons, Andrew, 18, and Chris,13, and a step-daughter Danielle, 16.
Chief Superintendent Tim Jackson said:” I am delighted that Phil’s commitment, enthusiasm and leadership in heading up the Western Rural NPU have been recognised through this award.
“It pays tribute to his hard work and many achievements over the last four years.”
