Widow's pride at policeman's medal

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Detective Constable Stephen Oake, a Special Branch officer for Greater Manchester Police, was killed during a counter terrorism operation in January 2003.

The 40-year-old father-of-three was attacked with a kitchen knife while going to the aid of colleagues during a raid on flats in Crumpsall, North Manchester.

Mr Oake's efforts have now been honoured with a Queen's Gallantry Medal for bravery.

His widow Lesley described the announcement as "great news" for her family.

"Steve's actions on that fateful day in January 2003 were typical of a man who was committed to his job and to his colleagues. We are extremely proud that his sacrificial act of bravery has resulted in this prestigious award. We accept this award not only on behalf of Steve but in recognition too, of the bravery of the many officers that were involved on that day."

The news comes following a long-running campaign to officially recognise Mr Oake's courage.

After his death, an application to award the Special Branch officer a posthumous George Cross was rejected by a Cabinet Office committee.

The committee's decision was described by then chairman of the Police Federation Jan Berry as an insult to Mr Oake's memory and "an affront to all police officers".

Peter Fahy, Chief Constable of Greater Manchester Police (GMP), said about the Gallantry award: "The public of Greater Manchester and his colleagues have always supported Stephen being given an award to recognise the great sacrifice he made as part of the national effort against the threat of terrorism. We are especially pleased for Stephen's family who have faced the most traumatic of circumstances with great dignity and forbearance."