A man who started his career with Wiltshire Police 45 years ago has had his contribution to the force recognised with an award by Chief Constable Pat Geenty.

Gordon ‘Gordie’ Smith, 62, started as a cadet in 1969 and became a PC in 1971. After a 30-year career he retired in 2001 but just six weeks later he was persuaded back and for the past 12 years has worked as a civilian member of staff as part of the child internet exploitation team.

Mr Smith is one of a team of six based at Devizes dealing with a constant workload of about 80 cases.

He said: “We are never comfortable with the material we are dealing with. It can be extremely distressing even for staff who have worked here a long time. Luckily I am able to switch off at the end of the day.”

He lives in Swindon with wife of 39 years, Jenny, and has two children Rachel and Katie.

Mr Smith said: “I’m proud to have spent 45 years enjoying my job. Since I started technology has changed but what the police do day to day hasn’t.”