Merseyside Police’s first-ever female chief constable has been named a dame.
Serena Kennedy became the force’s figurehead in April 2021 until her retirement four years later, having also served as deputy since 2017.
The long-serving officer spent 32 years in policing with spells at Greater Manchester Police and Cheshire Constabulary before arriving on Merseyside.
She previously received the King’s Police Medal in recognition of her service and has now been awarded a damehood in the King’s Birthday Honours.
Detective Chief Inspector Jason Pye has also been commemorated with a King’s Police Medal for his role in leading the Southport killings investigation.
Current Merseyside Police chief constable Rob Carden said: “During eight years at Merseyside Police, Serena was wholly committed to protecting and serving the communities of Merseyside.
“Serena’s time as Chief Constable was marked by a number of major and tragic incidents, including the Women’s Hospital Bombing, the Covid pandemic, the deaths of innocent victims caught up in gun crime in 2022 and of course the dreadful murder of Alice, Bebe and Elsie in Southport in 2024 – as well as the subsequent disorder.
“Her leadership, compassion for victims and families and her engagement with communities during and after these incidents was outstanding and well worthy of the recognition she is receiving today.”
He added: “Jason led the investigation into the tragic murders of Alice, Bebe and Elsie with incredible professionalism and humanity.
“Despite the tragedy being one of the most professionally and emotionally challenging incidents this force has ever investigated, Jason never bowed from his commitment to secure justice for the victims, their families and all those affected.”