A VOLUNTEER chaplain has been recognised for his 22 years’ service to Devon and Cornwall Police.

John Ewington’s work with the police began at Bideford in 1999 and he has since offered support to the teams at Holsworthy, Torrington and South Molton stations.

His experience as a full-time Church of England vicar has been invaluable as he faithfully discharges his duties to the chaplaincy.

During a virtual ceremony hosted by Chief Constable Shaun Sawyer, citations for John and other police volunteers were read by Emma Webber, Citizens in Policing co-ordinator.

“Looking after quite a wide geographic spread is not easy, but John has never complained and has always been ready with a joke and a smile to support his officers and staff. In fact, his humour is probably what makes him stand out most.”

John was also thanked for his ability to bring care and compassion during the most sensitive situations.

A member of the Devon and Cornwall Police fly fishing association, John has been able to combine two of his great passions, fly fishing and non-judgemental support. He finds that speaking to people about difficult situations whilst out in nature can be more therapeutic than a traditional chat in a station.

At John’s retirement earlier this year, his colleague, Devon and Cornwall Police chaplain Sarah Jeffrey, wrote: “It was with heavy hearts that we said goodbye to John Ewington.

“Some of his best chaplaincy work has been done while standing knee deep in water, a fishing pole in his hand, talking to officers about the stresses and strains of the job.

“John is also an exceptional artist. It’s not unusual after a really lengthy chaplaincy meeting for some of us to find a small artistic drawing of ourselves which John has created whilst listening to whomever is speaking.

“John has heard many stories over the years, and shared in the joys of things like officers getting married, having babies or being promoted,” she continued.

“He has also shared in the tragedies and challenges such as officers and staff dealing with deaths, including child deaths, divorce, illness and of course most recently, COVID.

“John is never one to shy away from a quick comment or remark which always makes us laugh. He is also not afraid to question and find out why things are the way they are. His inquisitive mind and nature have helped us sometimes look at our processes and review why indeed we do things the way we do. 

“Whilst we know that John won’t miss some of our technological requirements such as electronic expense reimbursements or online learning, he will be truly missed by all of us and we hope he will miss us too.”