A RYEDALE man has been awarded for his work in revitalising the ways in which Kirkbymoorside residents are kept safe thanks to the Neighbourhood Watch scheme.

Representative for Ryedale Neighbourhood Watch (NHW), Terry Wallis, was presented with the Neighbourhood Watch Special Award by North Yorkshire Police Chief Constable Dave Brown in an event to recognise the valuable role Neighbourhood Watch co- coordinators play in keeping Ryedale safe.

Inspector Andy Everitt said: “I am delighted that Terry has received this year’s award in recognition of his commitment to Neighbourhood Watch in his area.

“The quality of Terry’s publications and his constant engagement with Ryedale police and the community has been fantastic.”

Terry, who is also the NHW coordinator for Kirkbymoorside and its surrounding areas, works with the local Safer Neighbourhood Team and supports the police with their Neighbourhood Watch and Rural Watch recruitment. As part of his work he has also set up a system to communicate with the NHW and rural Watch Coordinators in the area.

In particular, Inspector Everitt praised Terry for going above and beyond his duties when it came to looking out for members of the community.

He said: “An example of Terry’s commitment was his willingness to help a local person resolve an issue while Terry himself was on holiday in Florida. Terry linked up his laptop and began communicating with me from the US.

“I can honestly say his enthusiasm is infectious.

“He is always there for people and really goes the extra mile to make our communities feel even safer.”

Terry is also in the running for county nominee for North Yorkshire at the National Neighbourhood Watch awards ceremony, which will be held in London.