A COMMUNITY police officer has scooped a prestigious award for the second time in his career.Pc Jon Eaves, was presented with the Sheepshanks Trophy, which is awarded annually to the Suffolk officer or staff member judged to have given the most outstanding service to the community.

A COMMUNITY police officer has scooped a prestigious award for the second time in his career.

Pc Jon Eaves, was presented with the Sheepshanks Trophy, which is awarded annually to the Suffolk officer or staff member judged to have given the most outstanding service to the community.

The 37-year-old yesterday became the first officer to be awarded the trophy twice after winning it for the first time in 1998 for his service to the community in Stowmarket.

This time Pc Eaves, who lives in Stowmarket, was nominated by Thorndon Parish Council, and supported by his supervising officers, further parish councils and Neighbourhood Watch.

He was praised for his contribution to monthly newsletters, covering local policing issues in detail, explaining police policy and actions, and feeding back to the community.

The officer, who was also given a Chief Constable's Commendation for his work in Claydon and Bramford in 2003, believes the key to successful community policing is being accessible to the public.

Mr Eaves, who now works in Eye said: “The public want somebody who is local to them, who knows them, in many cases individually, who has a good working knowledge of the local area and who is available and accessible to them.

“It's often the small things and quality of life issues which most affect them. By paying close attention to these small things, I think that's what the public really appreciates.

“I am lucky to do a job I've really enjoyed for 17 years.”

Thorndon Parish Council commended Mr Eaves' work with local children. He has a desk at the local high school and regularly supports youth activities away from the classroom.