A voluntary police officer from Silver End, near Braintree, has been appointed an MBE in the Queen's New Year Honours list for his services to policing after dedicating 34 years of his life to Essex Police.
Derek Hopkins, 62, assistant chief officer of specials, has been invited to Buckingham Palace by the Prime Minister on behalf of the Queen to receive the honour at a ceremony next year.
The scout leader and charity fundraiser said he has not always enjoyed life in the force, but is nonetheless privileged to have been recognised for his work.
He said: "I am of course extremely proud and I feel honoured to have had my voluntary service recognised in this way.
"I will not say that I have enjoyed every minute of my 34 years' service with Essex Police Special Constabulary – the role of a police officer is often challenging, sometimes traumatic and occasionally dangerous.
"I have, however, always found it very rewarding and am privileged to play a small part in an organisation that has, at its heart, people who really want to make a difference in their communities, often without thanks or recognition for their enthusiasm and dedication."
It is a job which Mr Hopkins has had to juggle with the rigours of family life, and as well as undertaking paid work he admits it has not always been an easy task.
He said: "I must also recognise that I would not have been able to devote as much time to volunteering as I have without the unwavering support of my family.
"I know there have been times when my commitment to volunteering has competed with responsibilities to my family, and that my priorities could sometimes have been different, but my family has always been very supportive. I could not have done it without them.
"I accept the award in the knowledge that it reflects the efforts of all my volunteer colleagues who work tirelessly, fitting their duties around their normal jobs and family lives, to assist full-time colleagues in delivering an enhanced policing service.
"I wish to take this opportunity to thank all my colleagues, past and present, for their support and friendship during my time with Essex Police."
Chief Constable Stephen Kavanagh said: "I am delighted for Derek and his family and extremely grateful for the continued and enduring commitment Derek provides to the force.
"This is a magnificent achievement which highlights his immense devotion to Essex Police and the public we serve.
"He has made an enormous contribution to the safety of residents of Essex at considerable personal sacrifice.
"Derek's commitment to serving the people of this county and his determination in making Essex a safe county is inspiring and I would like to sincerely congratulate him on receiving this MBE."
