Three Wiltshire Search and Rescue volunteers have been honoured for their role in the recovery of a body from the River Avon in Bradford on Avon.
Scott Finch, Jo Young and Phil Snow were awarded a Chief Officer’s Commendation for their actions on the evening of 27 June this year, when they located missing Liam Hacker’s body during a complex water search.
The man, aged in his 20s, disappeared in the the river at Barton Farm Country Park – while swimming with friends on a warm summer’s day. The incident parked a major operation.
Chief Constable Catherine Roper said: “On the evening of Friday 27 June 2025, during a tragic incident in Bradford-on-Avon.
“Scott Finch, Jo Young, and Phil Snow of Wiltshire Search and Rescue (WILSAR) demonstrated extraordinary dedication, professionalism, and humanity in the face of challenging and emotionally demanding circumstances.
“These three volunteers devoted many hours into the night painstakingly searching the river for a missing male in his 20s.
“Through the use of a pole and underwater camera, they eventually located the body submerged approximately 10 feet below the water’s surface.
“When it became clear that a specialist dive team would not be available for another 8-10 hours, they selflessly remained on scene to maintain continuous visual contact with the body, ensuring it would not be lost to the current.”
Adding: “Upon consultation with senior officers, they were asked to undertake the complex and delicate task of recovering the body themselves – an action outside of their usual remit.
“With visibility down to just 15cm and relying solely on a camera feed, they worked with immense care and precision, ultimately succeeding in raising the young man to the surface with dignity after 20 intense minutes of effort.
“Their actions exemplify the highest standards of volunteer service: courage, teamwork, compassion, and quiet professionalism.
“This commendation honours the selfless and skilled service they provided during this tragic event.”
WILSAR praised the efforts of its volunteers in a statement following the awards.
A spokesperson said: “Following a tragic incident in June, Chief Constable Catherine Roper has recognised the extraordinary dedication, professionalism and humanity of three Search and Rescue volunteers with a Commendation.
“Scott, Jo and Phil were among the first to respond to the request for assistance from the 999 control room.
“They were on scene for many hours into the night, crewing the boat that located the missing person.
“They were part of a multi-agency response involving over 50 responders from several organisations, but their efforts were particularly integral to the success of the operation.”
The awards were presented at a ceremony this week, where Assistant Chief Constable Ian Saunders expressed thanks on behalf of Wiltshire Police to all volunteers involved in the incident and others like it.
