Mark Mathias, 49 and originally from Hendy, was presented with the award by sponsor Pennant Homes on the day he retires from service after being recognised for his services to the local community.
Mark started as a police cadet with South Wales Police in 1980 and rose through the ranks to become Chief Superintendent, covering Swansea and Neath Port Talbot and investigating some of the key cases in the area. Mark was also awarded the Queen’s Police Medal for distinguished service in the New Year’s Honours List earlier this year.
He has now been recognised for his efforts at The Local Hero awards 2012..
Held at The Dragon Hotel in Swansea, the Local Hero Awards are organised by local radio station The Wave & Swansea Sound and aim to recognise those individuals who make an impact in the local community, yet often go unrewarded.
Gerraint Oakley, Pennant Homes’ managing director said, “Awarding the Public Service award to Mark was an honour and a fitting way to recognise his work as he retires from the force. He has made a hugely positive impact to the local area in his 32 years in the police force.
“Sponsoring the Local Hero Awards is one of a number of ways we are supporting the local community in Swansea and we hope to continue these relationships as we develop more affordable housing in the area.”
Mark Mathias said, “I am honoured to be presented with the Public Service award by Pennant Homes. I joined the police force in 1980 with the aim of making a difference and this has never gone away. My career with South Wales police has been extremely rewarding, but to receive thanks from the local community for the work we do is very humbling indeed.
“As I retire from my post I am confident that local officers will continue to make great strides forward in reducing crime and the fear of crime in Swansea.”
Helen Bowden, The Wave’s station director said, “We’re very grateful to Pennant for sponsoring the Public Service Award and presenting the accolade to Mark Mathias. People like Mark work incredibly hard in the local community and don’t often get the recognition they deserve, which is why we developed the Local Hero awards. ”
Pictured: Councillor June Stanton, Deputy Lord Mayor of the City & County of Swansea, congratulates Mark Mathias on receiving his award for Public Service from Pennant Homes managing director, Gerraint Oakley
