A police sergeant with more than 35 years service is to be handed a prestigious award after being praised by the Home Secretary as an “outstanding example” to other officers.

Det Sgt Graham Sanders will be given the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Police Authority Award ceremony next week. It will be the second lifetime achievement award he has received in just five months.

The West Bromwich detective, who has completed 35 years’ service plus three as a cadet, and is planning to retire this year, was praised by colleagues and Home Secretary Jacqui Smith.

He said it was an honour to be given the award.

“It is easy to go to work every day when you know you are going to face a challenge,” he said. “We are in a profession where we can make a difference.”

During his career the detective has received six chief superintendent’s awards for his outstanding work as well as the National Lifetime Achievement Award in London last year.

His achievements include working on Operation Santrella, the investigation into the murder and attempted murder of a mother and daughter by a French national.

Home Secretary Jacqui Smith said: “Graham Sanders is a very deserving recipient of this award having served 35 years as a police officer with an exemplary record and numerous commendations.

“He has been an outstanding example to those who have served with him.”

Chief Superintendent Steve Dugmore, commander of North Sandwell police, added: “Det Sgt Sanders is a terrific officer who has had an outstanding career.

“He is committed and only last year completed 26 years without a day off sick. But his real strength is the way he is consistently complimented on the way he deals with victims of crime.

“He really cares. He truly deserves this award.”

Det Sgt Sanders will be handed the award at a ceremony next Tuesday.

By Claire Morrall