TEN police officers and staff were commended for their part in the investigation of teenager Jenna Brookfield's murder, last night.

Jenna's stepfather Michael Baldwin was jailed for life last July for the 15-year-old Abersychan girl's murder.

Commendations were given to DC Chris O'Driscoll, Sgt Gavin Pugh, DC Andy Coombes, DC Nick Gilbert, DC David Pegington, DC Wendy Keepin, PC Colin Moore, and police staff workers Beth Williams, Andrea Thomas and Ian Brewster.

They were praised for their skill, determination and professionalism which, combined with the work of others, demonstrated a thorough, efficient and innovative investigation.

They were presented with their awards by the High Sheriff of Gwent, Brian Watkins.

Up to 20 officers have already been rewarded for their work on the case in the Chief Constable's commendations.

DI Mike Jones said: "It was a very complicated and emotive enquiry. There was a lot of commitment and hard work by all the officers involved throughout the enquiry."

Ian Brewster explained he was involved in the investigation from the beginning as a forensic expert.

"I was responsible for co-ordinating all the crime scene, forensic and archaeological scenes.

"We had a great urge to find the body so the mother could lay her to rest. I was present when the grave was discovered and when the body was taken out.

"We do deal with horrific cases but we all support each other, we do get involved in the investigations some times."

Sergeant Gavin Pugh said: "The case started off as a missing person but turned out to be a murder enquiry.

"We always had to think that Jenna might still be alive, it became a crime investigation so we were still obliged to follow up every sighting, every line of enquiry to assist in the investigation.

"I have 18 years of police service and everyone on this case was touched by the circumstances of it.

"The whole team help support each other - it's a tradition because we are all going through the same situation."