21 July 2008: Vernon Coaker, Under Secretary of State for Policing, Security and Community Safety and senior members at Security Industry Authority (SIA) praised the actions of ten Cash and Valuables in Transit operatives with Special Awards for Outstanding Service, sponsored by the SIA.

At the British Security Industry Association's Annual Luncheon held last week at London's Hilton Hotel, Park Lane, the operatives whose identities are protected due to the sensitive nature of their work, were rewarded for their outstanding actions many of which involved violent altercations with would-be robbers.

Michael Wilson, Chief Executive of the SIA said:

"The SIA is proud to be associated with this award and is grateful for the opportunity to recognise publicly the commitment of these 10 guards. In doing so we acknowledge there are many ordinary people across the industry who in the course of their jobs show extraordinary loyalty and bravery.

Regulation has been an essential tool in reassuring customers, enforcement partners and the public that the industry is professional and capable of delivering a service fit for the 21st century. These awards show the tremendous quality of individuals in the private security industry, and its commitment to the job of helping to maintain community safety."