Rural crime and plant & tool theft are unlikely to diminish any time soon, more's the pity. Taking the fight to the bad guys, and already producing some impressive results is Andy Huddleston, who leads the National Construction & Agricultural Theft Team (NCATT) police unit. We spoke with Andy and found out more about NCATT in our July/Aug 25 edition, and now he has won a prestigious King's Police Medal for his efforts...
The medal was awarded in the King’s New Year Honours, in recognition of Andy’s distinguished service to policing, rural crime prevention and the fight against organised criminal groups targeting agricultural and construction machinery. Formerly a Superintendent at Northumbria Police, Andy has played a key role in strengthening the national response to machinery and equipment theft. His work has brought police forces, industry bodies, manufacturers, hire companies, insurers and security partners closer together to improve prevention.
The CEA supported Andy’s nomination, alongside industry partners including the HAE and others who have worked closely with him and NCATT over the years. “This is a thoroughly deserved honour for Andy and a proud moment for everyone who has worked with him across the construction and agricultural machinery sectors." said CEA CEO Viki Bell.
“The CEA was pleased to support Andy’s nomination, and we are delighted to see his commitment, professionalism and leadership recognised through the King’s Police Medal.”
While HAE Director of Policy & Public Affairs, Mark Bradshaw, added: “Andy’s recognition is incredibly well deserved. His work has made a real difference to the hire, construction and agricultural sectors, particularly in helping to improve the way machinery theft is understood, reported and tackled.
“Those of us who supported the nomination did so because we have seen first-hand the value of Andy’s work and the practical difference it has made. This honour recognises Andy’s personal commitment and the importance of strong partnerships between policing and industry.”
The final word goes to Andy himself, who said: “It was a great surprise and privilege to receive the King’s Police Medal. I am very humbled and grateful to those who put me forward and supported the nomination.
“I have been very fortunate throughout my service to have worked with some outstanding people in policing, mountain rescue, academia and the farming and construction industries. This award is as much about those people as it is about me.”
The CEA also congratulates former Northumbria Police Chief Superintendent Sam Rennison, who received the King’s Police Medal following 30 years’ service with Northumbria Police. Sam will be among the speakers at CECE Congress 2026, hosted by the CEA in London from October 27–29th.
https://thecea.org.uk/
