Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

An outstanding Q.G.M. pair awarded to Chief Superintendent C. H. Standen, Avon and Somerset Constabulary, whose gallant attempt to arrest an armed robber in a Bath jeweller’s shop was captured on CCTV and subsequently broadcast on national television

Queen’s Gallantry Medal (Christopher Hugh Standen); Police L.S. & G.C., E.II.R., 2nd issue (Supt.) both medals contained in their cases of issue, extremely fine (2) £2500-3000

Q.G.M. London Gazette 2 July 1993:

‘Christopher Hugh Standen, Chief Superintendent, Avon and Somerset Constabulary.

At approximately 10.20 a.m. on 31st October 1992, Chief Superintendent Standen, whilst off duty, entered a jeweller’s shop. As he was being served by a member of staff, three more customers entered the shop. The third customer was followed by a man dressed in motor cycle clothing and wearing a crash helmet. As he entered the shop he brandished a shotgun and ordered everyone to get down on the floor.

Chief Superintendent Standen remained where he was. The gunman continued to shout and pointed the gun towards the officer as he approached him threateningly. At this point the Chief Superintendent identified himself as a Police Officer. The gunman kicked the officer to make him lie down but he ignored his demands and closed with the gunman in an attempt to disarm him. A violent struggle ensued as the officer tried to wrestle the gun from the robber during which the gun was discharged but the shot penetrated the floor. The Chief Superintendent continued to wrestle with the gunman who managed to push the officer to the ground. During the struggle part of the shotgun had become dislodged and the gun would not fire. The gunman then struck the Chief Superintendent a blow with the weapon. Undeterred the officer made a further attempt at detaining the offender. After a continued bitter struggle, his assailant managed to break free and made his escape on the back of a waiting motorcycle. Despite extensive police enquiries the offenders have not been caught.

Chief Superintendent Standen displayed conspicuous gallantry when, without regard for his own safety, he attempted to disarm and detain an armed man in the process of robbing a jeweller. During the struggle a shot was fired and the officer was pushed to the floor. Undeterred he made a further attempt to disarm the gunman who finally broke free and made his escape.’

The pair is sold with copies of various related news cuttings and a VHS video copy of the CCTV footage of the incident.