Interpreter named 'unsung hero'

An interpreter has been named the winner of the Northamptonshire Police Authority's 2008 Unsung Heroes award.

Abade Ahmed, from Northampton, was given the award and a cheque for £500 for his work helping the police's Hate Crimes Unit.

Luisa Jepson, from the Hate Crimes Unit, said: "Abade has been supporting us for the last five years.

"He acts as an informal interpreter and adviser and we often contact him directly if we require assistance."

She added: "He also regularly meets with student officers to provide them with an insight into the Somali community."

Councillor Derek Lawson, vice chair of the Police Authority and chair of the Unsung Heroes judging panel, said: "Abade's was an outstanding nomination as his role is pivotal to ensuring that a minority community in the community feels safe and supported.

"His work as an interpreter and adviser reflects the hard work put in by many people in strengthening community and race relations in Northamptonshire and we felt this should be rightly acknowledged with the top award."