Wigan police sergeant wins Chief Constable Bravery Award 2025
PS Carl Beck recognised for heroic actions during a knife attack
Police Sergeant Carl Beck from the Wigan district has been awarded the Chief Constable Bravery Award 2025 for his courageous actions during a violent knife attack in Wigan town centre.
PS Beck’s heroism unfolded on 18th July 2024, when he self-deployed to an incident on Market Street after hearing about it on the police airwaves.
The offender, armed with a knife, had carried out multiple attacks in a busy area in the middle of the day, endangering the public. The attacker stabbed the victim several times, stole from him, and returned to continue the attack.
Quick response
Working with the Neighbourhood Tasking Team, PS Beck recognised the urgency of the situation and acted decisively, arriving at the scene from Wigan Police Station within five minutes.
Members of the public pointed him towards the offender’s location. Despite conflicting reports of stabbings, PS Beck pursued the suspect, fully aware of the risks involved.
Neutralising the threat
On confronting the offender, who was still armed, the suspect refused to cooperate and attempted to take PS Beck’s taser. Remaining calm and professional, PS Beck successfully deployed his taser to neutralise the threat and prevent further harm.
Even after the arrest, PS Beck demonstrated exemplary professionalism, managing the crime scene, securing evidence, and ensuring the offender received aftercare, including being taken to hospital before custody.
Sentencing
PS Beck’s actions contributed to the successful prosecution of the offender, who was convicted of robbery, section 18 wounding, burglary, possession of a bladed article, and affray. The attacker was sentenced to six years in prison, and the victim survived the attack.
Recognition for bravery
Greater Manchester Police Chief Constable Sir Stephen Watson praised PS Beck, saying:
“It is often said that police officers run toward danger when others flee, and PS Carl Beck exemplified this truth.
“In the face of peril, he showed immense courage and unwavering commitment to protecting others.
“His actions did not end when the immediate threat passed; he demonstrated the same dedication in providing aftercare and support to the offender. PS Carl Beck sets a terrific and inspiring example for all of us across the force.”
Wigan’s District Commander, Clare Jenkins, also commended PS Beck’s bravery and professionalism, adding:
“His level of selflessness to ensure there was no wider risk to the public, disregarding the risk to himself, was outstanding.
“His professionalism in aftercare of the suspect demonstrates fantastic police conduct.
“His actions were rightly highlighted by Force training, how he dealt with the incident and then suspect, whilst demonstrating immense bravery. Great work!”
The Chief Constable Bravery Award 2025 serves as a reminder of the risks officers face daily to protect the public, often in unpredictable and high-risk situations. Recognising their commitment and dedication to service is vital.