Former Aycliffe cop Andy Boyd wins Special Recognition Award

Sgt Boyd, who was instrumental in bringing the Knife Angel sculpture to the town, retired after 30 years of service with Durham Constabulary and his final day was at the Knife Angel’s closing ceremony on June 28, 2025.

But he also used his position and expertise to educate the next generation – and delivered over 80 workshops to over 2000 school pupils to raise awareness around knife crime.

Until recently, Andy was the Neighbourhood Sergeant at Newton Aycliffe where he oversaw projects to reduce demand on services, improve confidence and make the community a safer place to live, work and visit.

Announcing his win, a tear jerking video featuring colleagues and Police and Crime Commissioner Joy Allen praised him for his “extraordinary legacy”.

By the time Andy was invited on stage to pick up his trophy, many attendees were already on their feet cheering him on.

“Winning this award tonight is completely unexpected. I feel overwhelmed,” he began.

“I’ve always felt very proud to be a police officer. Things can change a lot over the years but I’ve certainly found my calling in serving the community.

“Everybody has their opinions of the police, but 99% of us are trying to change lives which is why we join in the first place.

“I was sad to leave.”

Before sitting back down, Andy heaped praise on Zoey McGill – the mum of Jack Woodley, 18, who was murdered by a gang of teens in 2021 in a gang attack in Houghton-le-Spring.

Since then, the mum has been an ardent knife crime campaigner and was part of the charge calling for the Knife Angel to come to County Durham. She also described Andy as her “hero”.

Andy added: “I can’t accept this without acknowledging the true inspiration behind this which was Zoey McGill.

“She approached us and wanted to make sure another mum doesn’t go through grief like her.”