A police officer from Machen who was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease in 1999 has been awarded The Queen’s Police Medal in the Birthday Honour’s List.
PC Hywel Griffiths has worked with Gwent Police for over 30 years and was diagnosed with the disease while working as a dog handler.
He has since achieved a degree in Computing and Maths and a diploma in Social Policy and Criminology.
The campaigner for the charity Parkinson’s UK has played a leading role in the analysis of intelligence in connection with a range of major criminal investigations.
He has had a number of commendations for cases involving murder, rape, child sexual exploitation, human trafficking, armed robbery, doorstep crime against the elderly and drugs trafficking.
PC Griffiths said: “I feel greatly humbled and privileged to have been nominated for this award but at the same time I feel delighted and proud of what I have achieved.
“I have been able to live a normal life despite some extraordinary circumstances. As I always say – I’m nobody special, I’m just an ordinary guy.
“I have just dealt with things the only way I know how, with a positive attitude and with a smile on my face. I could not have achieved what I have without the terrific support of my family, friends, colleagues, health workers and Gwent Police.”
Mr Griffiths’ achievement was praised by Gwent Police’s Chief Constable Jeff Farrar and Police and Crime Commissioner Ian Johnston.
Mr Farrar said: “I have, of course, personally congratulated Hywel on this fantastic achievement. He is an exceptional man and deserves the Honour and recognition this medal brings.
“Despite being diagnosed with such a debilitating disease, Hywel has continued to play a full role in policing and has served as a role model to many people in similar situations.
“He has exceptional skills as a criminal investigator and despite the daily obstacles he faces in terms of mobility, verbal communication and coping with his condition he has delivered sustained professional contributions to the most serious crimes committed in Gwent. He is an outstanding role model for others, both in policing and in life. Congratulations Hywel.”
Mr Johnston said: “Hywel’s accomplished and exemplary career in the force is a true reflection of the inspirational man he is. He has received several commendations during his distinguished career as a police constable and now as an intelligence officer- including two commendations for bravery.
“Being diagnosed with Parkinson’s is just another challenge he has faced head on with the same bravery. When I first met him he had already been diagnosed with Parkinson’s but the first thing that struck me about him was his committed attitude and his enthusiastic approach to both his work and his life.
“Those qualities have never waned in all the years I’ve known him. He has achieved fantastic results in raising awareness around disability issues in the force and the fact that being disabled doesn’t stop you from achieving your goals.
“I have seldom met an individual more deserving of a formal recognition and I am delighted that his commitment and his achievements have now been given the royal seal of approval.”