Widow gets award for shot Pc
The widow of Constable Richard Gray, who was shot dead in Shrewsbury while on duty, has received West Mercia Police's highest award in recognition of her husband's bravery.
It was a poignant and touching moment during a ceremony, which honoured the bravery, dedication and outstanding performance of police officers in Shropshire. Jenny Lee-Gray accepted the award from Chief Constable Paul West.
Constable Gray's colleagues gave her a standing ovation as she walked up to the stage at the West Mercia Police commendation evening at the Lord Hill Hotel last night.
Constable Gray, who was shot on May 6 by Peter Medlicott, in New Park Road, Castlefields, was commended for his work with fellow officer John Morris when they confronted a violent man armed with a semi automatic pistol on April 22 last year.
They have been given the Chief Constable's Certificate of Commendation - the force's highest form of recognition.
Chief Constable Paul West paid tribute to Constable Gray and to the dignity of Mrs Lee-Gray.
He said: "It goes without saying that tonight's event has an extra dimension tinged with both sadness and pride as we are reminded of a member of our policing family whose commitment and dedication led him to make the ultimate sacrifice earlier this year.
"We will all remember him with great affection and remember with pride having served with an officer of his calibre."
Mr West praised Mrs Lee-Gray for her "fortitude and dignity" and personally thanked her for receiving the posthumous award.
He said during Constable Gray's time with the force he had received five commendations, two of which were the highest award, which was a unique achievement and the standing ovation was a statement to how people felt about him.
"The award was made towards the end of last year when Ricky was still with us. He was an outstanding officer. He is remembered by us as a real hero, a good man and a loving partner to Jenny."
By Rebecca Lawrence
