Inspector Lou Hubble was recognised for policing services provided to the rural communities of Hampshire and the Isle of Wight.

Inspector Lou Hubble was recognised for policing services provided to the rural communities of Hampshire and the Isle of Wight.

Inspector Hubble, who has 20 years policing service with Hampshire Constabulary, was instrumental in developing and delivering the rural policing strategy.

She has always had an interest in wildlife, and became a Wildlife Crime Officer as a Police Constable in 1999.

As a Sergeant in 2006, following a series of hare coursing incidents in the Test Valley area, she became aware of concerns being raised by the rural community about the police’s ability to deal with crimes of this type.

Inspector Hubble successfully lobbied for a dedicated rural crime team to be set up.

This saw the creation of Country Watch, which was initially run as a pilot within the western area of Hampshire.

Following a force wide review of rural policing in 2010, the Country Watch scheme was rolled out across all parts of the force.

It is now embedded as part of the rural policing response across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight.

Commenting on receiving the honour, Inspector Hubble said: “I am extremely proud of my achievements and am honoured to be in receipt of such a prestigious award.

“It is a huge personal accolade to be recognised at this level.

“It demonstrates continued commitment from Hampshire Constabulary in the Country Watch team and their close work with our rural communities and partnership organisations.”

Hampshire Constabulary’s chief constable, Olivia Pinkney, said: “I am absolutely delighted to see Inspector Lou Hubble recognised in this way.

"She has been absolutely tireless in her efforts to build trust and confidence within our rural communities and shown huge leadership in ensuring we understand the challenges of policing a force which is 85 per cent rural.”