A Gloucestershire police officer has been awarded the Queen's Police Medal in the Queen's Birthday Honours.

Detective Sargeant Nigel Hatten, from the Child Protection Investigation Team, will receive the award for distinguished services to policing.

Detective Sergeant Hatten joined Gloucestershire Constabulary in 1992 and has spent 10 of his 24 years' service in the child protection arena.

During that time he has played a vital role in several areas within child protection including the indecent images of children unit, the Child Abuse Investigation Team and the Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC).

Chief Constable Rod Hansen said: "I am delighted and proud that Detective Sergeant Hatten has been awarded the Queen's Police Medal for his distinguished services to policing.

"The award recognises the admirable work Nigel has done to help protect children in Gloucestershire and his tireless dedication to the victims of sexual abuse.

"Nigel's is considered by his colleagues and partner agencies to be an expert on child protection, one of the most difficult areas of policing, and is recognised by many as a dedicated, motivated and inspirational individual who has always gone above and beyond what is expected of him in his role.

"His professionalism, approachability and dedication to his colleagues and the young people of Gloucestershire are truly inspiring

"This award is a well-deserved honour for him, and in the finest tradition of British policing, but also a great honour for the Constabulary and the county as well."

Picture: Detective Sargeant Nigel Hatten