The efforts of Avon and Somerset Police's special constables in dealing with car meets in Cheddar Gorge have been recognised at the Citizens in Policing Regional Awards 2020.

The force won in three out of five award categories which recognise the contributions of volunteer officers across the South West, including Special Constabulary Team of the Year for the West Somerset team of specials who dealt with community tension in Cheddar at a time of high operational demand during Covid-19.

The West Somerset team of specials have played a significant role in managing the ongoing and complex issue of car meets in Cheddar Gorge.

Large-scale car meets have been increasingly common at the gorge, attracting 300 to 500 people, which attract up to 500 often high performance vehicles.

Since the easing of lockdown measures, the West Somerset team has doubled efforts to tackle the issue independently managing operations, targeting those committing crimes and reassuring the public.

A police spokesperson said: "Their handling of the first weekend lockdown ended showcases the exemplary work of the team.

"An unexpected car meet with more than 400 vehicles arrived that weekend, at a time when operational demand was high, the neighbourhood team was stretched beyond capacity, and an influx of day-trippers were visiting the gorge.

"The specials independently managed the closure of the road, implemented dispersal orders, and successfully ensured all vehicles were removed safely.

"They also worked hard to diffuse tension in the community and keep a vast number of pedestrians safe.

"The specials team have taken a proactive and front-seat approach to tackling the issue of car meets head on and have played a key role in managing community tensions and improving confidence in policing."

Chief Constable Andy Marsh said: "2020 has been a year of unprecedented challenges for policing, placing an exceptional demand on our services.

"The efforts of those who donate their free time to us as volunteers and special constables have been crucial to maintaining positive relationships with the communities we serve and keeping the communities of Avon and Somerset safe.

"I'd like to offer my congratulations and thanks to our deserving regional winners, who have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to policing under the toughest of circumstances, implementing pioneering initiatives, developing strategic operations, and executing demanding tasks."

Police and Crime Commissioner Sue Mountstevens said: "This much-deserved recognition of our policing volunteers at a regional level is testament to their enduring commitment and dedication to safeguarding our communities during these challenging times.

"I'd like to say a huge congratulations to our 2020 winners and to thank them for the inspirational work they do."