THE SIKH community in Southampton has thanked officials for their services.

Members of Hampshire police and the city council were recognised for their work in the community at a ceremony in the temple Gurdwara Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib Ji.

The event was part of the celebrations of the tenth Sikh guru Gobind Singh Ji.

Among those who received awards were Police and Crime Commissioner for Hampshire and IOW Simon Hayes, Chief Superintendent of Hampshire police James Fulton and Councillor Satvir Kaur.

Also at the temple to receive a surprise award was PC Ahmed Sasso, who was given a special lifetime achievement accolade for working in the community for more than 20 years.

Inspector Pete Jones accepted CS Fulton’s award and said: “My team has always felt very welcome in the Sikh community and it’s an honour to be here. There is a lot to celebrate within the city.”

PC Sasso said: “I’m really honoured to be here, very flattered and feel very humbled by this award. I have been with Southampton police for a long time and met some very amazing people.”

During her acceptance speech Cllr Kaur had tears in her eyes as she said: “I’m really humbled that my own community recognises the achievements that we all make and to receive something so special from the people I have known for such a long time is amazing.”