A Bromley Volunteer Police Cadet (VPC) has been honoured after helping ensure a rapist was taken off the streets.

James Osborne, 14, was described as the “future” of the force as he was commended by Bromley’s previous borough commander Steph Roberts.

James played a crucial role in identifying 27-year-old James Isted, 27, of Tintagel Road, who in February this year was convicted of raping and robbing two women in Orpington.

In May 2013 the teenage cadet witnessed a young woman being dragged into the graveyard at All Saints Church in the town, and helped lead officers to the scene.

The award came as one of 29 accolades, with the then borough commander leading her last ceremony before stepping down.

Speaking at last month’s event, she said of James’ efforts: “Special mention needs to be made in recognition of the public spirited and decisive quick thinking of James Osborne, as this led officers to the scene of the rape.

“His intervention assisted our officers identifying the suspect and more importantly led to evidence that actually assisted in us securing the conviction at Court.

“James is probably our future, he’s one of our Volunteer Police Cadets and it’s an absolute honour to commend him today.

Alongside James seven police officers were commended for their part in the capture and conviction of Isted – they were A/PS Mark Russell, PC Laura Funnell, PC Michael Smith, PS Simon Smith, PC Steven Patterson, PC Brett James and PC Jon Card.