An off duty police officer who tackled an armed man with a knife and metal pipe to the ground has been awarded for her bravery.

The award was bestowed at a ceremony held at the Police Headquarters in Welwyn Garden City on February 24.

Police Constable Joanna Witkiewicz, based out of Watford received the Chief Constable Commendation for Bravery Award.

On September 19, 2018, Joanna was off duty in Stevenage.

On approaching a cycle path she heard a commotion and people shouting “Run, run, he has a knife.” She then saw three men arguing.

Two of the men had large pieces of wood in their hands.

The third man was holding two weapons - a metal bar and a knife.

The men holding the pieces of wood approached the third man, and fearing violence Joanna declared herself a police officer and shouted at them to “drop the weapons.”

The first two men moved and stood behind Joanna. The third man began running towards them waving his weapons.

Joanna grabbed his t-shirt and tackled him to the ground. After a struggle and violently kicking Joanna, he managed to get up and run off.

The third man was eventually arrested and charged.

Several honours were also given to other people from Watford such as Special Sergeant Mark Brennan, ex-police officer Clive Miles, Annie-Laure Promonet.