February 19, 2001 15:03: A POLICEWOMAN who disarmed a man brandishing a knife outside a Gravesend pub has been given a special award.

Town centre officer PC Alison Hazel and Gravesend resident Jenny Sparks were given Area Commander's Merit Awards for their bravery in two separate incidents.

PC Hazel's award was for her actions after being called to the Somerset Arms pub, in Darnley Road, in August 1999.

Locals warned a man was inside waving a knife and when the man came out she disarmed him using CS spray.

The man was arrested and later sentenced to 18 months for aggravated burglary.

PC Hazel said: "It was the most frightening thing I have ever experienced.

"I am proud to get this award, I wasn't expecting it."

Jenny Sparks received her award for helping PC Hazel catch a woman who ran out of Debenhams, in Gravesend with an armful of goods.

While PC Hazel ran towards the station car park, quick-thinking Mrs Sparks drove her car to the car park entrance and blocked the escape route.

With her help, PC Hazel managed to restrain and handcuff the woman who was under the influence of drugs at the time.

Mrs Sparks said: "I was amazed to hear I was receiving the award."

Presenting the award, Superintendent David Ainsworth, said: "Commendations for courage are few and far between. PC Hazel is particularly deserving as she acted without hesitation and her actions in this case top an impressive recent track record of self-initiated arrests, which contribute to public safety.

"Jenny Sparks showed remarkable courage and so it was extremely important we show our appreciation."