Former Renfrewshire top police officer honoured in New Year Honours List
Former Renfrewshire police area commander, Deputy Chief Constable Alan Speirs, has been acknowledged in the King’s New Year Honours. Speirs has been awarded the King’s Police Medal (KPM) for his dedication and service, having started his policing career with Strathclyde Police in 1988. Over 36 years, he has held various roles including area commander for Renfrewshire and Inverclyde division. He has also served in roles related to professionalism, governance, assurance, and senior information risk owner (SIRO). His most recent position was as deputy chief constable for people and professionalism.
In August 2023, Speirs temporarily held the role of deputy chief constable for professionalism, strategy, and engagement before being promoted to the post permanently in February. Following acknowledgement of institutional discrimination within Police Scotland by former Chief Constable Sir Iain Livingstone, Speirs took on the responsibility within the new ‘Policing Together’ portfolio. He focused on creating an inclusive culture within policing by introducing standards of professional behaviour and restructuring probationer training to enhance positive interactions with the public.
Speirs also played a key role in improving relations with the LGBTQI community, leading efforts such as a formal letter of apology signed and published by the Chief Constable. In response to the honours, Speirs expressed his gratitude, stating, “This deep honour highlights the important service police officers, staff and volunteers provide for our communities. I thank and pay tribute to many colleagues who have been a source of support and inspiration over many years.”
Additionally, Retired Superintendent Shaheen Baber, who began his policing career with Strathclyde Police in 1996, also received the King’s Police Medal. Chief Constable Jo Farrell commended both Speirs and Baber for their significant contributions to policing and congratulated them on the well-deserved honours.
The recognition of these officers highlights the dedication and professionalism essential in delivering vital public services to communities. The honours serve as a testament to the commitment and hard work of police officers in ensuring the safety and well-being of the public.
Summary: Former Renfrewshire top cop, Deputy Chief Constable Alan Speirs, has been honoured with the King’s Police Medal in the New Year Honours List for his longstanding service and dedication in various roles within Police Scotland. The recognition underscores the importance of building inclusive cultures within policing and fostering positive relationships with communities. This recognition reflects the significant contributions of officers like Speirs and Superintendent Baber in upholding the values of professionalism and service in policing.