A police officer who gave the kiss of life to a little boy who had stopped breathing and the team responsible for putting on Radio 1’s mega Hackney Weekend festival were among those honoured at this year’s Hackney Police Awards.

Hackney Gazette: PCSO Essl for his bravery, diligence, tenacity and professionalism when dealing with a young victim of robbery and the apprehension of the suspect.PCSO Essl for his bravery, diligence, tenacity and professionalism when dealing with a young victim of robbery and the apprehension of the suspect. (Image: Archant)

Officers who ensured the Olympic flame travelled safely through the borough on the same day as the Hackney One festival were also applauded at the gala ceremony held in honour of over 100 officers, staff, volunteers and local residents in Hackney Town Hall in Mare Street last Tuesday.

PC Alex Edwards was off-duty and just leaving his home in Peckham Rye last September when he heard screaming and shouting and saw a distressed mum with her young child who was floppy and lifeless.

He took the child from the woman who did not speak English, and with no thought for his own safety despite a crowd gathering around him, took the child into a nearby pharmacy and began performing CPR.

Within just two rescue breaths, the child spluttered and began breathing on his own again, and London Ambulance Service said PC Edwards’ swift actions had saved the child’s life.

Meanwhile, the organisers of Radio 1’s Big Weekend last June received praise for pulling off the biggest event ever held in Hackney as well as Radio 1’s largest road show - with the only fall out being three minor crimes.

Jason Carter, the Radio 1 lead, was praised for his work managing the risks in hosting the event on Hackney Marshes, an area blighted by high levels of crime and gang-related violence.

Massive reputational issues for the Met and Hackney Council hinged on the concert which saw 100,000 music fans rock to the likes of international pop start Jay Z and Rihanna, held just days before the Olympic opening ceremony

The event is now cited as an example of excellence and hailed as a bench mark for all London festivals to aspire to.

The team behind the Olympic torch relay were also lauded for pulling the day off smoothly despite several threats to disrupt the torch as people carried it on its route through the borough.

Meanwhile Pc Scott Mcilwaine. a trained paramedic and Special Constable was commended for his outstanding professionalism, innovation and resilience in coming up with the idea of a Paramedic Rapid Response car, known as V945, which is funded by the NHS.

He gives up his own time to man the car, which responds to all police calls requiring medical intervention - thus freeing up the time of police who would normally be required to remain on the scene until paramedics arrive.

And John Keyes, Hackney’s Leader for Arsenal in the Community was praised for his dedication, commitment and professionalism in working with young people and making the borough safer for young people.