PC Callow (left) and PC Kitson (right)
Cambridgeshire Police Federation chair Liz Groom has sent a good luck message to two officers nominated for a national Bravery Award following a confrontation with a knife-wielding offender.
PC Rob Callow and PC Piers Kitson were nominated after displaying exceptional courage and teamwork in arresting an armed suspect in Cambridge in March 2025.
The incident began as a routine patrol but quickly escalated when the officers recognised a cyclist who attempted to flee.
A foot pursuit followed before the suspect crashed his bike before producing a knife as the officers attempted to detain him.
Rob seized the suspect’s knife hand and managed to disarm him, throwing the weapon clear.
But during the struggle he sustained a deep cut to his arm, though he did not immediately realise he had been stabbed.
Piers called for assistance as the officers maintained control of the suspect until colleagues arrived.
Rob was taken to Addenbrooke’s Hospital in Cambridge, where he required plastic surgery to repair damage to his forearm. He returned to duty within weeks and has been left with a permanent scar.
The offender was later convicted of grievous bodily harm, possession of an offensive weapon, possession of criminal property and possession with intent to supply controlled drugs. He was sentenced to six years and four months’ imprisonment.
Speaking ahead of the Police Federation of England and Wales (PFEW) Bravery Awards ceremony in London, branch chair Liz said: “Rob and Piers demonstrated remarkable courage and composure to a dangerous offender off the streets.
“They demonstrated the best of policing by putting themselves in harm’s way to protect the public.
“On behalf of Cambridgeshire Police Federation, I congratulate them both on this well-deserved recognition and wish them the very best of luck in London.”