Fearless officer who risked his life for public safety nominated for bravery award

A courageous police officer who put his life in danger by grappling with an armed man for public safety has been nominated for a Bravery Award at the recent Chief Constable's Annual Awards.

PC Anthony Spence responded to reports of a serious armed robbery in the Hollins area of Oldham, where a thug entered a local shop armed with a large kitchen knife and threatened the shopkeeper to hand over cigarettes. 

The brave officer was first on the scene on Tuesday, October 29, 2024 and immediately began an area search for the offender before locating him. The man was still armed with the knife. 

When challenged, the suspect refused to comply and callously walked towards PC Spence, threatening him and stating, “Do you want to die?”. 

Despite repeated commands to drop the weapon, the suspect continued to pose a significant threat.  

PC Spence used his taser, which proved ineffective due to the offender’s thick clothing. The male removed the taser prongs and fled, prompting PC Spence to pursue while requesting urgent backup. 

During the chase, the suspect again confronted PC Spence with the knife, making further threats to kill.  

PC Spence then used his Parva spray, which was also unsuccessful. At this point, PC Spence was forced to take cover behind a parked car to avoid being stabbed. 

The suspect then approached a member of the public’s address and knocked on the door shouting through to them.  

Concerned for the safety of the occupants, PC Spence told the male to step away from the house. 

The pursuit continued where PC Spence chased the suspect and used his baton to disarm him before safely detaining him. 

The offender was arrested for robbery, threats to kill, and possession of a bladed article and remains detained under Section 3 at hospital. 

Colleagues praised PC Spence for his courage, professionalism and unwavering commitment to public safety during this highly dangerous incident. His actions ensured the safety of the community and prevented serious harm. 

As a result of his actions to serve and protect, PC Spence was awarded for his brave efforts at a Chief Constable’s Commendation event earlier this year.

This is not the first time, the officer has gone above and beyond the call of duty, as back in April 2023, he was one of two officers who won the Oldham Award for Bravery after an incident in Failsworth, involving four men armed with machetes following a burglary.

Pictured above: PC Spence (left) won a Chief Constable's Commendation award earlier this year, which led to his nomination for the GMP-wide Bravery Award, with Sir Stephen Watson QPM.

Chief Constable, Sir Stephen Watson QPM, said: “It is often said police officers run towards danger when others flee. 

“PC Spence did exactly this during this incident. His level of selflessness to ensure there was no wider risk to the public, disregarding the risk to himself was outstanding. 

“His actions were rightly highlighted for his bravery, and he was deservedly nominated for this award. His professionalism on how he dealt with the incident whilst demonstrating immense courage is an example to all officers at GMP and beyond. Great work!”