A digital forensic specialist at Cumbria Police has received international recognition for his work.

Ralph Henderson, who is a digital forensic unit office manager, was named the Digital Bridge Builder at the Cellebrite Digital Justice Awards in Washington DC for his work on the Cumbria Cellebrite Guardian project.

The project allows for remote access to digital evidence via the cloud.

Cumbria Police said the project helps to speed up investigations, negate "unnecessary" travel and download periods, saving on officer hours, wear on vehicles – and "thereby improving the service to the public."

Mr Henderson said: "I'm truly honoured to receive this recognition and award, but this was far from a solo effort, many departments in Cumbria Constabulary have worked extremely hard to deliver this solution."

He was competing against finalists from Brazil, Florida and Kansas.

Det Supt Andy Myers, head of forensic services at Cumbria Police, said: "This award is well-deserved.

"We’re extremely proud of Ralph, the work he carries out and this achievement.

"He has received this award on behalf of Cumbria while up against international colleagues.

"Ralph plays a pivotal role in digital forensics at Cumbria Police and carries out essential, unseen work to ensure we provide the best possible service to victims of crime and the wider public.