David Prebble meets comissioner Bernard Hogan-Howe

A heroic Bromley police officer who was paralysed after falling when chasing a burglar has been honoured for his dedicated service.

The Met’s most senior staff member Bernard Hogan Howe was among several paying tribute to David Prebble who retired after 48 years last Friday.

Mr Prebble, a father of three, joined the Metropolitan Police Service as a cadet in 1964 becoming a police constable two years later.

In January 1975, he fell off a roof when pursuing a thief and was impaled on spike which confined him to a wheelchair - but he has carried on working in business and financial roles.

Since 1998 he has been Bromley-based and tackled youth crime as co-chairman of the Children and Young Persons board.

He worked in Brixton during the 1990s and received an MBE following the 1995 riots.

Mr Prebble, who turns 65 this week, said: “I felt privileged that the boss took the time to see me. It has been a joy working for this organisation, which I think is the best police service in the world.”

Bromley borough commander Steph Roberts said: “The Met remains a great organisation because of people like Dave, who dedicate themselves to a lifetime of selfless service to their local communities. I wish him all the best for a well-earned retirement.”