A POLICE officer who uncovered a cannabis factory and another who caught a car thief after a perilous chase are among those being commended at a ceremony tomorrow night.

PC Nicky Holland responded to reports of suspicious activity at an unoccupied house in Abertillery and discovered large-scale cannabis production.

Ninety-five cultivated cannabis plants were recovered as well as elaborate plumbing, heating and lighting equipment.

Further investigation led to an address in Somerset where 368 more plants were found.

The owner of the property was arrested and found guilty at crown court for producing cannabis and abstracting electricity.

PC Iestyn Penrose will also be commended for his brave and skilled actions during a police chase which saw him catch the driver of a stolen car in February 2007.

PC Penrose spotted the stolen car while driving on the single lane Markham to Tredegar mountain road.

Driving conditions were extremely difficult, it was dark, with rain and thick fog reducing visibility to a few metres.

The stolen vehicle drove recklessly at the narrow gap between the police car and the mountain side. The officer managed to get out of his vehicle, but the other driver reversed, ignoring the officer's shouts to stop.

PC Penrose tried to seize the ignition keys but it was too dangerous. PAVA spray was used and the male driver and 2 female passengers were arrested.

The man was charged with a number of offences and pleaded guilty at court.

Other officers to be commended include:

  • Officers who administered first aid and preserved evidence at the crime scene after a serious hit and run.
  • Officers who investigated a stabbing in Abertillery.
  • A group of officers who investigated after an elderly lady was mugged in Abertillery will be praised for their sensitivity and diligent investigative work.
  • Officers who spent five hours in Llanbradach where an armed man was making threats to kill in October 2006.
  • Two officers who helped develop the local Prolific and Priority Offender Scheme.