Police officers who helped convict a murderer after a devastating arson attack have been recognised for their work.

A 65-year-old woman died in the house fire in West Malling with another person managing to escape the blaze by jumping from a first-floor window.

It was later revealed the fire was deliberate and had been started by the ex-partner of the victim’s daughter.

Simon Childs was arrested and later charged with murdering Jackie Allen as well as attempted murder.

Despite protesting his innocence, the pest controller was unanimously convicted following a three-week trial at Maidstone Crown Court and sentenced to a minimum of 32 years in prison.

During the trial, the jury heard how Childs couldn’t come to terms that his marriage was over and his ex-lover had begun a new relationship.

At the time of the arson in November 2018, Childs was said to have torched the property out of revenge, and Ms Allen became trapped inside.

In court, Childs' ex-partner Amanda said: "All I can say is nothing will ever be the same again. We will never be the family we once were. The cruel death of my mother goes beyond comprehension."

All police officer commended for their efforts played a vital role in securing the scene, gathering evidence and helping to put forward a thorough and compelling case to be presented in court.

Hayley Keen, Christopher Lane, Sergeant Martin Kennet, DC Michelle James, DC Bradley Shingles, DC Clare Lockwood and Detective Sergeant Murray Tester were all recognised for their professionalism.

A police officer who was grabbed by the throat and her head repeatedly hit on a concrete wall and another who ran towards the suspect and Tasered him to help his colleague have also been honoured for their bravery.

Two men were reported to be attempting to break into a property in Dover in January last year, armed with a blood-stained knife.

As the officers approached the scene, the offenders ran in different directions and Ben Hibbert detained one suspect while Aimee Bryers ran after the second.

Whne cornered, the suspect threatened PC Bryers, who attempted to detain him.

In a further bid to escape the man grabbed her by the throat and repeatedly hit her head on a concrete wall.

PC Hibbert heard what was happening and picked up his suspect, running with him to his colleague.

He then drew his Taser and the second suspect was arrested.

At the time, PC Bryers had only been working as a police officer for seven weeks.

They were both commended for their bravery and professionalism.

In regards to both incidents, Chief Constable Alan Pugshley said: "We have an incredible team here at Kent Police, full of officers and staff who go the extra mile when putting victims at the heart of what they do, and though the work brings many challenges it is also extremely rewarding.

"Being able to present these awards for acts of unbelievable bravery and courage is one of the best parts of my job and right now there has never been a better time to join the Kent Police family as we are recruiting new officers and staff into a variety of roles, all with the aim of providing a first class service to the people of Kent."

Read more: All the latest news from Malling

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