A police community support officer who was instrumental in gaining the trust of a young abuse victim has been praised for her work.

PCSO Lucy Groves has been hailed for the “exceptional performance” which saw her befriend a girl from Chesham who had been subjected to Child Sexual Exploitation.

This resulted in a man being arrested, charged and convicted, receiving a custodial sentence.

Through building a relationship with the girl, she divulged details of the offences she had experienced to PCSO Groves who in turn captured this in the form of a statement.

During a ceremony last week, where nine people were given awards, she was commended in supporting one of the Force’s values ‘protecting our communities from the most serious harm’, Thames Valley Police said.

Eight others, including a member of the public from Reading, were commended for their actions by Chief Constable Francis Habgood during an awards ceremony yesterday (Thursday).

He said: “To hear the stories behind these commendations makes me feel very proud and privileged.

“Not only do they recognise the courage, professionalism and skills of our police officers and staff involved, but also members of the public who have displayed exceptional courage when faced with some very difficult situations.

“They all deserve to feel very proud for making a difference by going above and beyond their call of duty, or reflecting the best of human nature.”