Charedi officer Moshe Rothstein has won a UK government award that recognises outstanding special constables and police support volunteers.

Special Constable Mr Rothstein, the only religious Jew serving in the Greater Manchester Police division , said he was “overwhelmed” on receipt of the Lord Ferrers Award at the House of Commons this afternoon.

Home Secretary Theresa May presented Mr Rothstein with the Individual Achievement Award, which recognises his work in strengthening relations between police and the Jewish community.

The 30-year-old noted that organisers had arranged for kosher food to be prepared ahead of the event.

He said: “I am overwhelmed, it is an honour and a privilege. It has been a fantastic day and I thank GMP for making this possible. GMP has made me feel at home and part of the team and this award is awesome.

“It shows that you can be orthodox Jewish and in policing. I love being able to educate police officers and the community and being able to bring them together. My journey within the police has just got better and better.

“I hope that other people from the Jewish community will follow my lead and join the police.”

Mr Rothstein has volunteered more than 800 hours this year alone within the local community, attending close to 150 incidents.

GMP Special Constabulary Chief Officer Mike Walmsley said: “I am delighted that Moshe has received this award. The work he does in the Jewish community is outstanding and the relationships he has built with the police and community is a testament to his passion and dedication. We are very proud that he is part of our team.”

In an earlier interview with the JC, Manchester-based Mr Rothstein, who is also a truck driver, said British Jews have a responsibility to safeguard the country.

“If we live here, we should play a part in protecting Britain,” he said.