A POLICE officer has been celebrated for his bravery after saving a woman’s life.

North Yorkshire Police have celebrated one of their own - police constable Mike McVay - for his bravery after he went out of his way to help a woman at risk of harming herself.

As explained by a spokesperson for the force, Mike and his team of fellow officers first encountered the ‘extremely vulnerable’ after she had left her home in a distressed state’– working together with her care team to get her home safely.


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After this however, the woman left her home again and police were altered to the fact that she had left her home through a bathroom window, climbed a tree, and was in imminent danger.

Whilst carers had tried to help, the woman in question moved to thin and dangerous branches and was not able to be reached safely.

In reaction, PC Mike McVay removed his kit, climbed on top of the police van, and scaled the tree in order to help the woman – despite ‘appalling weather conditions’.

Whilst fellow officers, PC Edwards and PC Aylett, supported his efforts, he was able to deescalate the situation and keep the woman safely in the tree until the Fire & Rescue Service arrived. Together, they brought her down and were able to offer the much needed help.

In recognition of this, PC McVay was received the Royal Humane Society’s Honorary Testimonial Parchment Certificate — an award honouring life-saving bravery – and was presented with the award last month.

“The courageous and selfless actions of PC McVay, supported by his colleagues, undoubtedly saved the woman’s life. Congratulations to PC Mike McVay on a thoroughly well-deserved award,” said a spokesperson.

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