Security at The Royals wins national award
Lee Tooey, who works at The Royals Shopping Centre in Southend High Street, has been named as one of the best security guards in the UK.
The 28-year old from Basildon works for VSG - the company that provides the security at the Royals Shopping Centre - and was awarded the prestigious Outstanding Act award from The British Security Industry Association (BSIA) during its annual awards lunch at The Hilton, Park Lane (27 June 2012).
The Association's Security Personnel Awards recognise people who demonstrate dedication, loyalty, teamwork, customer service skills, use of technology and bravery on a daily basis.
Lee had been on the contract at the Royals for just 3-months when he and his colleagues were alerted to the presence of a male inside the centre, wearing a balaclava and carrying a knife. Without fear for his own safety Lee quickly took control, diverting the suspect’s attention to allow his colleagues to safely evacuate members of the public and cordon off the area. Upon arrival of the Police, the man surrendered his knife and was arrested. Lee’s bravery in engaging with the man played a crucial role in preventing the incident from escalating.
The Royals Shopping Centre Manager Dawn Jeakings says “We are delighted Lee has won this hugely deserved award. Lee and the rest of the security team work really hard to ensure people feel completely safe and have a great time whilst they are here in the Royals. To receive an award like this shows everyone that Southend is a fantastic and secure place to visit – and that will encourage other visitors come to our town and keep our businesses thriving.”
Keith Francis is Managing Director of VSG, which supplies security services for The Royals says “I am incredibly proud Lee has been selected by the panel of judges in what I know is a fiercely fought competition, with all our competitors vying for places in the final. It’s a huge accolade for him, and the team at The Royals.”
On being presented with the award by Sir Hugh Orde OBE QPM, President of the Association of Chief Police Officers (ACPO), Lee said “Winning this award has been the highlight of my career so far, and I hope to continue to work up the management ladder within the company as far as my experience and skills allow. I love working in the security industry, particularly the fact that no two days are the same and that I have the opportunity to help others and to keep people and property safe and secure.”
This is the second time in recent months The Royals Shopping Centre has been credited for its security consciousness – it has also become a member of Essex Police’s Community Safety Accreditation Scheme (CSAS). Accredited members of staff wear a nationally approved badge and hold an identification card, stating their name and confirming the powers they have been granted to deal with underage drinking and anti-social behaviour within the centre. To be granted these powers under CSAS, the staff involved had to satisfy strict guidelines set by Essex Police, as well as passing extensive training and vetting.
