By Henry Green
Two Nottinghamshire police officers who were killed while chasing suspects will be honoured with a new award for emergency service workers who died in the line of duty.
PC Christopher McDonald’s and PC Ged Walker’s families will be awarded The Elizabeth Emblem for their bravery, courage and dedication.
The award, introduced in March this year, is a mark of recognition to the next of kin of those who lost their lives during public service.
PC McDonald was only 19 years old when he was killed while confronting a gang breaking into a jewellers’ shop in Worksop on May 17 1978.
After a struggle with a suspect, the officer suffered serious head injuries.
His mum will receive the Elizabeth Emblem in his honour.
His sisters Elaine Dean and Carol Bullock said: “It is really good that he is going to be remembered all these years on. It has been a long time coming.
“There are not many jobs where people are faced with these situations. They are the thin blue line, and we are really proud as a family.”
Dog handler PC ​Ged Walker died 21 years ago when he was on duty in Bulwell. He was fatally injured as he tried to stop a stolen taxi.
He died of his injuries two days later on January 9 2003.
His wife Tracy will receive the Elizabeth Emblem in his honour.
She said: “We are very proud, and it is nice for the police to be acknowledged by the government for what he did. I think police officers should be recognised.
“He has lost his life serving the community. There is no greater sacrifice and something that was never expected.”
Notts Police Chief Constable Kate Meynell said: “I am very pleased that both officers continue to be recognised for their immense bravery and courage. They made the ultimate sacrifice in their heroic attempts to uphold the law and protect the community from harm.
“Their loss is still felt across the force to this day and their service and sacrifice will never be forgotten.”
