A team who investigate allegations of child abuse have been recognised at the Hertfordshire High Sheriff’s annual awards.

Specialist detectives from Herts Police and officers from Herts County Council’s children’s services form The Joint Child Protection Investigation Team and deal with some of the most serious crimes committed against children.

Hertfordshire High Sheriff Jonathan Trower held his annual awards at County Hall last week and presented his Personal Award - which recognises the outstanding commitment and dedication of those who make a real difference in their communities - to the team.

He said: “What is so impressive about this team is not only their dedication when dealing with numerous distressing and ghastly cases of child abuse and neglect, but also the fact two agencies have come together to form a team.”

The JCPIT was the first specialist child protection team to merge police officers with highly-trained social workers and deals with about 50 cases every month.

Herts Police’s Chief Constable, Andy Bliss, said: “The award is a well-deserved accolade and a real honour for the team.

“This award celebrates the vital work and commitment of this dedicated team to keeping children safe.”