A dedicated and long-serving member of Kent Police’s Special Constabulary has been awarded The King’s Police Medal.

For 25 years Special Sergeant Niyi Opaleye has served the people of Dartford on a voluntary basis whilst also working full-time as a scientist.

Instantly recognisable to many members of the community who frequently see him patrolling the town on foot or bicycle, S/Sgt Opaleye is only the second ever Special to have been recognised for his contribution to policing with The King’s Police Medal (KPM).

The King’s Police Medal is awarded by His Majesty King Charles III as part of his New Year and Birthday Honours lists and recognises those who have achieved a specially distinguished record in policing.

The 53-year-old married father of two, said: ‘I get a lot of fulfilment in helping people. When you break up a fight, make an arrest or seize a knife from someone then you have potentially saved someone’s life and it really makes you want to carry on performing the role. ‘