Former PSA President, Chief Superintendent Gavin Thomas, has received his OBE in an Investiture at Buckingham Palace.
Gavin was named in the 2019 Queen’s Birthday Honours list in recognition of his services to policing and was presented with his medal at a special ceremony today, Wednesday 12th February.
Gavin served as a Detective at every rank in Gloucestershire Constabulary, including Head of Crime and Protective Services and in a variety of areas including specialist crime, counter terrorism and as a Senior Investigating Officer. He has served as a Detective Chief Superintendent in Professional Standards and as an Area Commander.
He was active within the Association for many years, as both Branch and District Chair and Secretary. He was then elected as National Vice President in 2013, before serving as President from 2016 to 2019.
Gavin influenced national policy and the standards of policing through 6 years of working with the Government, key stakeholders and holding key roles in the College of Policing, playing a pivotal role in helping the national wellbeing of officers, instigating training in safeguarding and driving visioning and future planning in the Service.
Alongside this, he has devoted significant personal time towards strengthening the national governance of the College of Policing, with his commitment to the Board and chairing key committee work. He has also continuously helped the police family through pivotal roles on police charities, including the Police Arboretum Memorial Trust and the National Police Memorial Day.
Gavin commented, “Today has been truly special and something that means a great deal to me. I feel I am accepting the award on behalf of my family and countless colleagues in policing who quietly and bravely, devote their careers to protecting our communities.
“It has been a privilege and an honour to serve policing and the PSA for many years, enjoying what I feel is the best job in the world.”
PSA President Paul Griffiths said, “We were all thrilled to hear of Gavin’s recognition last year and it is wonderful to see him receiving his medal. He has, and continues to be, a great source of personal support, guidance and inspiration, and I send him the warmest congratulations from everyone at the PSA.”