Police Sergeant Laurence East Receives British Empire Medal for Exceptional Service

In a remarkable celebration of courage and commitment, our very own Police Sergeant Laurence East has been awarded the British Empire Medal. The accolade was presented by the Lord-Lieutenant for Oxfordshire, Mrs Marjorie Glasgow, during a recent ceremony.

A Journey of Service

Laurence was honoured in the King’s Birthday Honours List in June for his extraordinary bravery and unwavering dedication to his role, despite facing the challenges of a terminal cancer diagnosis. Since joining the police force in 2002 after a life-changing ride-along with a friend, Laurence has worked across various divisions, forming connections with a diverse range of individuals.

Facing Cancer with Strength and Resilience

Tragically, in September 2020, Laurence was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and subsequently underwent chemotherapy. Rather than succumbing to despair, he transformed his experience into a catalyst for good, fundraising to assist others while raising awareness about the disease and the accompanying mental health challenges.

To date, Laurence has raised over £16,000 for pancreatic cancer research through his initiative, the Shield Run Challenge. His philanthropic efforts also include raising £6,000 for a new wheelchair for an injured military veteran, £3,000 through the Three Peaks Challenge, £2,000 during the Devizes to Westminster canoe race for emergency service workers grappling with mental health issues, and £3,700 in support of police widow Lissie Harper.

Laurence’s charitable pursuits are extensive; he has climbed the tallest mountain in the UK for World Cancer Day, aided a fireman with Motor Neurone Disease by fundraising for essential equipment, and trekked through Norway with a charity, leading a team comprised of individuals facing serious health challenges.

In an inspiring display of determination, he supported a former serviceman in a wheelchair to complete the nine-mile Commando Speed March and walked 103 miles along the South Downs Way and 87 miles across the Ridgeway, raising funds for various causes along the way. Laurence has also shared his story and insights on the podcast Men’s Health Forum, discussing the mental health impacts of living with a terminal illness.

Memorable Moments in Policing

During the award ceremony, Laurence, accompanied by his wife Amy and colleague Damien Isherwood, expressed his pride in receiving the medal. Reflecting on his career, he fondly recalled memorable moments, including being in the back of an open helicopter for a NATO conference in Cardiff and meeting rugby legend Matt Dawson while policing in Ascot. He also played a part in both royal weddings of King Charles and Queen Consort Camilla, as well as the Duke and Duchess of Sussex.

“The reality of a career in the police is different from what is portrayed in the press, there are long hours, pressure, and it can be stressful, but the rewards far outweigh any downsides. I cannot recall a time when I did not want to go to work. In policing, you gain a family and make lifelong friends.”

Laurence extended heartfelt gratitude to his wife, children Jacob (19), Samuel (17), Niamh (14), and Orla (12), as well as his friends and the Curtis Palmer Programme, a charity that supported his fundraising challenges. Laurence said:

“The underlying support from my wife, children, and friends helped me immensely in my battle,”

We extend our warmest congratulations to Laurence East for his well-deserved honour and continued dedication. His story serves as an inspiration to many, highlighting the extraordinary impact one individual can have in the face of adversity.