A ‘SELFLESS’ Coventry man who volunteers for West Midlands Police has been recognised for his work in the King’s Birthday Honours.
Special Constable Hitesh Mehta has been awarded the British Empire Medal (BEM) for his dedication towards helping and protecting others as a volunteer officer.
Hitesh, who grew up in Hillfields in Coventry, became a Special Constable in 2003 because he wanted to make a difference to his local community.
He continues to actively volunteer within both policing and his local community.
Alongside this, he is a charity trustee at the city’s Shree Krishna Temple.
Hitesh has been involved with the Temple since the age of seven and has maintained a strong commitment to faith and community service throughout his life.
During his time working as a Special, Hitesh has met His Majesty King Charles on two occasions; during his visit to mark Coventry’s City of Culture, and at the opening of the Birmingham Commonwealth Games.
Hitesh has previously been awarded the Platinum Champion award by Her Majesty The Queen as part of the Royal Voluntary Service, along with a host of other awards for his commitment to volunteering in policing and the community.
He has taken on leadership roles within Special policing, which included helping Special Constables obtaining their IPS (Independent Patrol Status) and within Learning and Development, supporting new Special Constables in training.
West Midlands Police Special Chief Officer Steven Rice said: “We are extremely proud of Hitesh for receiving this award.
“He has selflessly volunteered many, many years to making a difference in policing and within communities.
“The honour is well-deserved and, like everyone at WMP, I want to say a massive thank you and congratulations.”
