A POLICE Officer who apprehended a violent murderer in Brean has been awarded a Chief Constable Commendation by Avon and Somerset Police.

PC Chris Hinchcliffe was nominated for the award for demonstrating “real courage” in October 2023, when he was first on scene at a distressing domestic incident involving a violent individual.

Arriving within four minutes of the call and without any back-up, PC Hinchliffe arrested the offender and handcuffed them to a railing outside the property in Brean.

This allowed PC Hinchcliffe to enter the property safely and give emergency CPR to the victim, while remaining calm and controlled at all times.

A spokesperson for Avon and Somerset Police said: “Thanks to his quick-thinking actions, he was able to preserve as much forensic evidence as he could, allowing justice to be served in court. The offender received a life sentence with a minimum term of 14 years.”

PC Hinchcliffe was shortlisted for the Avon and Somerset Force Value awards in the 'Courageous' category in February earlier this year.

Speaking about the Chief Constable Commendation, he said: “I’m incredibly honoured to receive this award. Although I was the first to arrive, it was a huge team effort that led to the offender receiving a life sentence in court.”

“This was a tragic incident, which is incredibly sad for the victim’s family left behind. In accepting this award, my thoughts will be with them.”