Local police officer James Drew has been awarded a commendation from the north and east occupational command unit area for his hard work and dedication to Hampshire Constabulary. Pc Drew, from Alton police station, organised and played in a football tournament designed to bridge a gap between the Police Force and local youths. Pc Drew told The Herald: "We organised the tournament purely to engage and interact with the youths. It was really good fun, and everyone was so keen to take part they organised their own teams really well." Inspector Simon Dodds said of the award: "In February, Pc Drew organised a football tournament in Alton. The event included three teams of local youths, many of whom had previously been in trouble with the police, two teams from the Alton Sports centre and two teams of police officers. "James spent a considerable amount of his own time organising the event, which was a great success. "Richard Harris, the county council youth worker who had nominated many of the youths, commented that this was an excellent idea that was thoroughly enjoyed by all those involved." The football tournament was such a success, Pc Drew is organising another event. "We're in the process of organising a new tournament for the beginning of the new year. Hopefully, this tournament will have more teams playing as the fire service, the police and the Sports centre will all have sides," he said.
