Published: June 5, 2009
CCTV camera operator praised in helping solve Burnham robbery

A CCTV camera operator has this week been handed a police award for his role in helping to catch a thief who stole £40,000 of diamonds from a Burnham-On-Sea antiques shop.

Barry Donbavand collected the commendation on behalf of Sedgemoor District Council's CCTV Office following the raid in July 2008.

Officers were called to the scene in Victoria Street and staff at the CCTV unit were able to identify the registration of a taxi the suspect used to leave the scene.

Within two hours the male was arrested in Bristol and on searching him, all the stolen property was found in his clothing.

Chief Superintendent Sandy Padgett said: "This commendation is in recognition of the dedication and professionalism of all the staff at Sedgemoor District Council's CCTV office that support this district in the prevention and detection of crime and community reassurance."

In 2008 and 2009 there have been 22,000 camera actions, resulting in 200 arrests as a direct result of the actions of the CCTV staff and over 400 from police requests for assistance.

Local police officers, residents and council staff were honoured at the ceremony by district commander Chief Superintendent Sandy Padgett.

Superintendent Damian Kearney, who presented the awards, said: "I was delighted to be able to present these awards in recognition of some fantastic work. It is a testament to the continued commitment of the Constabulary's officers, local partners and the community to work together to make safer, stronger neighbourhoods."

Pictured are Superintendent Damian Kearney and Barry Donbavand