A POLICE officer who went beyond the call of duty by restraining a Cinderford man who had shot himself, saving his life, has been nominated for a Police Bravery Award.

Sergeant Trish McCavera was working in Cinderford when she was called to the house where the incident happened.

Confronted by a hysterical wife and without knowing where the firearm was she acted quickly and decisively to ensure the paramedics were safe to go in and treat the man.

With support officers travelling to the scene she ventured in alone and found the highly aggressive man lying on his bed bleeding from the chest. 

She withstood a barrage of verbal abuse from the man as she approached and restrained him – little knowing the loaded shotgun he had used to injure himself was just inches away from his body. Another officer arrived soon after and handcuffed the man.

This meant paramedics were safe to come in, treat the man and ultimately save his life.

Sergeant McCavera said: "It's so lovely to be nominated. You don't have time to be scared. This job is all about protecting people's lives and keeping people safe from harm and that's what I was trying to do."

Inspector Neil Smith, who has worked with Trish for many years, said: "Trish epitomises everything that I believe a strong leader should be. She cares passionately about the community she serves and this incident illustrates that perfectly. Her own safety was at the back of the mind. She knew swift, bold action had to be taken as there was a significant risk of loss of life."

Ian Anderson, Gloucestershire Police Federation chairman said: "Once again the Police Federation Annual Bravery Awards allow me the opportunity to thank our police officers for the job the do, and the risks they encounter every working day, in order to keep the public of Gloucestershire safe. Sergeant McCavera showed bravery of the highest order by putting her own wellbeing at risk to ensure the health of this man and the safety of others."

Trish joined Gloucestershire Constabulary in April 2000 and initially served in Newent and Cinderford. She was promoted to sergeant in 2006 and stationed in Gloucester city centre. 

The Police Bravery Awards ceremony will be held in London on October 18.