In a display of remarkable courage, David Darnell from Kempston has been lauded at the National Police Chiefs’ Council’s (NPCC) annual Police Public Bravery Awards for his heroic actions that saved his stepdaughter from a brutal axe attack.
The harrowing incident unfolded in April 2021 at the Darnell family home when the assailant, the stepdaughter’s former partner launched a vicious assault with an axe he had concealed in his trousers after he tried to restart the relationship.
Firmly rejecting any chance of reconciliation, the stepdaughter found herself under attack.
Responding to the distressing commotion, Mr Darnell swiftly descended the stairs, confronting the assailant. Despite sustaining injuries during the confrontation, he bravely grappled with the offender, disarming him before he fled the scene.
Both Mr Darnell and his stepdaughter suffered injuries in the courageous act that ultimately led to the assailant’s imprisonment for 16 years and eight months.
The recognition for Mr Darnell’s exceptional bravery came last week at the NPCC’s prestigious annual Police Public Bravery Awards ceremony, hosted at The Cutlers’ Hall in Sheffield.
Chief Constable of South Yorkshire Police, Lauren Poultney, presided over the ceremony, which aimed to honour individuals who, like Mr Darnell, placed themselves in perilous situations, demonstrating selflessness and courage to protect others, defend their communities, and actively assist the police.
Bedfordshire Police Chief Constable Trevor Rodenhurst said: “Mr Darnell’s courage and selflessness has probably saved his stepdaughter’s life.
“It is timely as well that this award has come during the 16 days of action campaign against gender-based violence, where we highlight the scourge of things like domestic abuse in our communities.
“I know we ask our police officers to run towards danger and put themselves between harm and the public.
“We support them in doing so by providing training, safety equipment and support in the form of other police officers. The ask is still a significant one and takes great courage and bravery every day to deliver.
“But, when we see members of the public step up to perform enormously brave acts, they do not have the same armour, they do not necessarily know that help is coming.
“This is bravery in its purest form and everyone at Bedfordshire Police would commend Mr Darnell for his extraordinary actions.”
Mr Darnell’s heroic intervention serves as a powerful testament to the resilience and bravery found within Bedford’s local community, showcasing the extraordinary lengths individuals will go to safeguard their loved ones and make the area we live a nicer place to live, work and play.
if you know someone like Mr Darnell who has acted bravely, or someone who does go above and beyond to help people across Bedford Borough, why not nominate them for a Bedford Independent Everyday Heroes award?
Details of the categories and how to nominate can be found here.
