Dartmoor Prison had two officers nominated for national awards

Steve Allum, based at Dartmoor Prison, was praised for his "drive and determination" by judges.

The award was presented by Prisons Minister Paul Goggins and Prison Service director general Phil Wheatley at a ceremony in Droitwich.

Senior Officer Allum said: "This is unreal. I wasn't expecting it at all."

'Positive outlook'

Mr Allum, 42, who has been in the Prison Service for almost 16 years, added: "There's a lot of people in the job that do a lot of good.

"I'm part of a team of eight, we all work together. I've just been very lucky to come out top."

The officer, who lives in Princetown in Devon and has two children with wife Fiona, has been instrumental in developing the Resettlement Assessment Centre at HMP Dartmoor.

He described the centre's aim as helping inmates generate a "positive outlook" before they move on to open prisons.

The award also recognised his efforts in designing and implementing systems which complement the smooth operation of the unit, his concern for prisoner care and his efforts for prisoners' rehabilitation and resettlement.

Demanding circumstances

Mr Allum reached the final round of the awards after winning the Resettlement category and was up against seven other category winners.

He received a holiday for two and a silver salver for securing the top honour, which is now in its third year.

Mr Goggins said: "As I have visited prisons throughout the country I have met many officers who have impressed me with their professionalism and energy - often in demanding circumstances - and I can see the difference they are making to offenders' lives."