GMP Sergeant Awarded King’s Commendation for Bravery

A Greater Manchester Police officer who intervened in an armed attack and was stabbed as he tried to protect others has been awarded the King’s Commendation for Bravery, the Government has announced.

Sgt Tim Ansell has been recognised for the King’s Commendation for his courageous actions on 26 July 2023 when, without warning, his colleague was violently attacked from behind by a man wielding a knife.

Sgt Ansell did not hesitate to intervene and place himself between the attacker and his colleague, shielding him from further harm.

This triggered the attacker to turn his aggression towards Sgt Ansell, stabbing him repeatedly, causing two open wounds to his neck and further wounds to his arms and body.

Despite the life-threatening danger he was in, Sgt Ansell resisted throughout the attack, taking hold of the assailant’s upper body to prevent him from attacking others.

He ensured he maintained the assailant’s attention, even after he had fallen to the ground as a result of the attack.

This allowed other officers an opportunity to move in and deploy a Taser on the man.

After a second Taser attempt successfully subdued the assailant, officers were able to effectively restrain and handcuff him.

Mike Peake, Chair of Greater Manchester Police Federation, said: “This is brilliant news, and Tim richly deserves this honour.

“He and his colleagues showed real heroism in acting quickly to apprehend a dangerous suspect and protect the public, even as the assailant was stabbing them.

“Tim risked his life to save his colleague and we are all hugely proud of him and his actions.”

Sgt Ansell and his team were regional winners at the National Police Bravery Awards last year.

More information here www.gov.uk/government/news/civilian-gallantry-list-october-2025