A talented 11-year-old boy has been thrilled with a ride in a patrol car after winning a birthday card design competition for a police force's landmark anniversary.
Tami Awojide from Grangetown Primary School, Middlesbrough, was the overall winner of a birthday card design to celebrate Cleveland Police's 50th anniversary.
Tami received his prize - a visit from a few of the force's furry friends, followed by a ride in a police car - with Tami's dad witnessing the fun interaction with officers.
He enjoyed the visit alongside his school pupils.
Cleveland Constabulary, which was renamed Cleveland Police in 1996 when the four unitary authorities were introduced, was first established in April 1974.
To help the force mark turning 50, children at primary schools with a ‘Mini Police’ initiative were invited to be part of the celebrations by designing a birthday card.
Judging between a number of fantastic designs, Chief Constable Mark Webster selected Tami Awojide as the overall winner.
He was chosen out of 144 birthday cards from 12 primary schools across Stockton, Hartlepool, Redcar and Cleveland, and Middlesbrough.
Tami’s birthday card will be displayed at the force’s headquarters in Hemlington and put on the force's social media channels alongside all the other entries.
Chief Constable Mark Webster said: “I would like to congratulate Tami for designing a fantastic birthday card that showcases his perception of policing.
“Choosing the winner was not an easy decision due to the quality of entries we received. The cracking effort to draw our police crest, using bright colours to make ‘50’ stand out and the important message ‘be kind’ made Tami a very worthy winner.
“While we reflect on our history, we must also recognise how children will grow up to perhaps one day be the future of policing, therefore it was important for them to be part of our celebrations.”
Mini Police’ has been running in Cleveland since 2018. It aims to build trust and confidence with young people and the wider community.
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It is a fun and interactive opportunity for children aged 9 to 11 and is led by School Liaison Officer Geoff Illingworth.
Children learn about policing issues, staying safe and take part in volunteering activities to support neighbourhood policing.
To find out more please contact Geoffrey.Illingworth@cleveland.police.uk.
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