Chief Constable Serena Kennedy has expressed her delight following the news that a Merseyside Police sergeant has received an award in the New Year Honours List 2023.
Following the announcement that Sergeant Paul Costello of the Force Operations department has been awarded the King’s Police Medal (KPM), Chief Constable Serena Kennedy, said: “I am extremely proud of Paul and delighted that his dedication and significant contribution to policing in Merseyside has been recognised.
“Paul’s role involves the coordination and planning of security operations, which can range from visits involving members of the Royal Household and large-scale events to proactive policing operations that tackle serious and organised crime.
“From Labour Party Conferences and city-centre parades, through to Aintree Races and Open Golf Championships, operational planning goes on behind the scenes, but it is crucial to ensuring the safety of our communities and those that visit Merseyside, whether they are residents, visitors, racegoers, fans or party members.
“Paul has been a sergeant in Force Operations since 2012 and during that time he has demonstrated unbridled levels of dedication and flexibility that have contributed to the success of many crowd-pulling events and VIP visits, which in turn has enhanced the reputation of Merseyside and the city of Liverpool.
“He has regularly received personal praise from the Royal Household and VIP protection teams, and he has played a key part in the planning of protracted and complex operations aimed at dismantling organised crime gangs. His contribution over 30 years has been exceptional and I would like to congratulate and thank him for his outstanding efforts on behalf of the whole of Merseyside Police.”
Sergeant Paul Costello said: “I am truly surprised and humbled to have been recognised in the New Year Honours List. I have enjoyed every minute of my 33-year career with Merseyside Police and have had the privilege of working with the most professional, hardworking, committed people who all deserve to be recognised for what they do every day.
“My dad was a Sergeant in Merseyside Police and although he never encouraged me to join, he definitely inspired me. If he was still here today, he would have been immensely proud. I am hugely grateful to my family for their years of support, and to my colleagues past and present, for providing the opportunities that have led to this award.”
