PC Sam O’Key Receives First-Ever Challenge Coin from Naturewatch Foundation
By Jill Dando News
A Cumbria police officer has been nationally recognised for her outstanding efforts in tackling wildlife crime.
PC Sam O’Key, the Wildlife Coordinator for Cumbria Police, has been awarded the inaugural Naturewatch Foundation Challenge Coin for her exceptional investigative work targeting criminals who threaten the welfare of wildlife.
The award was presented during a surprise ceremony on 24th June by Sarah Carr, CEO of Naturewatch Foundation, accompanied by Amanda McKirdy, Supervisor of Cumbria Police’s Rural Crime Team.
The coin recognises individuals who demonstrate unwavering dedication to animal welfare, with PC O’Key praised for her textbook investigations and steadfast commitment to protecting persecuted species.
“Sam is a model of a great wildlife officer and a true advocate for the protection of our wildlife,” said Jim Clark, Campaign Manager at Naturewatch Foundation. “She is a classic example of a wildlife police officer who genuinely cares.”
Through her meticulous work, PC O’Key has played a key role in exposing criminal networks across the region, contributing significantly to national efforts to combat rural and wildlife crime.
She also serves on the Badger Persecution Priority Delivery Group, which works to safeguard this vulnerable species throughout England and Wales.
Reflecting on the honour, PC O’Key said:
“Since taking on the role of Wildlife Coordinator for Cumbria Police in 2018 I have worked closely with Naturewatch Foundation to bring those that would harm our wildlife to justice.
"Without the support of Naturewatch Foundation and other partner agencies who work tirelessly to identify these individuals we would not be able to disrupt their illegal activities in the way that we do.
"Receiving this challenge coin as recognition of the work I have been doing was not only unexpected but quite overwhelming.”
The Challenge Coin, a tradition rooted in military and law enforcement circles, is awarded to individuals whose efforts exemplify the values of being committed, caring, compassionate, and campaigning.
Naturewatch Foundation announced that only four coins will be issued each year, making it a highly prestigious accolade.
Sarah Carr, CEO of Naturewatch Foundation, added:
“Naturewatch Foundation launched the Challenge Coin to celebrate the remarkable work of individuals determined to improve animal welfare and tackle cruelty.
"My heartfelt thanks to Sam for her amazing work and congratulations on being the first recipient.”
Chief Constable Darren Martland of Cumbria Constabulary also praised the achievement:
“This award is a testament to her hard work and determination to tackle wildlife crime, bringing offenders to justice and supporting our partner agencies to protect our wildlife.”
Naturewatch Foundation confirmed that PC O’Key’s work sets a benchmark for other officers across the country, highlighting the power of dedicated enforcement in protecting the UK’s natural heritage.
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