Bravery medal for Bill Barker

A Cumbrian policeman who died saving the lives of the public by preventing them crossing a flood-damaged bridge has been posthumously awarded a Queen's Commendation for Bravery. PC Bill Barker died when Workington's Northside bridge collapsed.The widow of PC Bill Barker says she is "humbled and honoured" that her husband's bravery has been recognised nationally.

PC Barker has been posthumously awarded the Queen's Commendation for Bravery.

He died after Workington's Northside bridge was swept away in flood waters in 2009.

Home Secretary Theresa May says she has spoken to Mrs Barker.

She said:

Cumbria's Chief Constable, Stuart Hyde explained that the whole force has a sense of pride that Bill's actions have been recognised at the highest level. He aslo paid tribute to Mr Barker's family.