Chief inspector who helped resolve tensions in Luton honoured with MBE

Chief Inspector Hob Hoque was asked to lead on community cohesion in Luton in 2013, after significant tension in the town caused by extremist movements.

Over the following years, he worked tirelessly to build lasting relationships with communities and partners across the town, rebuilding trust in Bedfordshire Police.

Chief Inspector Hoque was also influential in bringing together a stop and search community scrutiny panel in 2017, and this year worked on establishing another community panel to scrutinise Bedfordshire Police's use of force.

He said: “I’m truly honoured and humbled to receive such an accolade of this nature. I believe Bedfordshire is truly a unique place to live and work - the community spirit across the county is second to none.

“I would not have been able to take cohesion to a national platform without some wonderful people who supported me through my journey, and I would like to say a huge thank you to my team members and the community for everything they have done, and continue to do, for me.”

The force’s Chief Constable Garry Forsyth said: “I am delighted Hob has been recognised for his hard work and his deep-rooted dedication to community policing.

“In Bedfordshire, we have a diverse, multi-faith, multi-cultural demographic. Hob’s work was vital in building relationships and trust and bridging the gap between police and communities.

“With a comprehensive knowledge of local communities, strong relationships with partners and the ability to listen and understand concerns, his style of policing and commitment has left a lasting, positive impression on communities across Bedfordshire, and has shaped the way our officers connect and engage with people.”

Luton Borough Council leader, Councillor Hazel Simmons, said: “Hob has been outstanding in his service to the communities throughout Luton.

"This honour is totally deserved, recognising the dedication and commitment he has shown throughout his work.

"He has been tireless and selfless in his service to our residents. On behalf of Luton Borough Council, we offer our warmest congratulations.”

As well as addressing community tensions, Chief Inspector Hoque’s work also brought a diverse range of communities and cultures together to celebrate positive community work and spirit across Bedfordshire.

In 2012, he hosted Bedfordshire Police’s first community cohesion awards and the event has continued to grow in size. Over the years the event has praised, supported and connected hundreds of local residents, charities, services, businesses and partners.

Montell Neufville, the stop and search panel chairman, added: "It is great news to hear that Chief Inspector Hob Hoque has received an MBE.

"I have known Hob for many years. He has worked closely with myself on the stop and search community scrutiny panel, helping to establish the forum and helping to put in place structures that led to officer engagement.

"He supported one of the largest best practice sharing conferences outside London on stop and search which we held in Kempston Police HQ. In addition, he then worked with us to set up a use of force panel.

"Throughout the time I have known him he has been supportive, willing to have conversations after very busy shifts and to problem solve at all hours. I'm pleased he has been chosen and would like to offer him my congratulations."