THE police team which helped to convict a Chard woman's murderers are among those honoured by Avon and Somerset Constabulary's chief constable at an awards ceremony.

The nine officers and staff involved in Operation Fascia, the murder investigation into the death of Catherine Wells-Burr on September 12, 2012, have been recognised.

The 23-year-old graduate was murdered at her home before her body was set alight in a car abandoned by the roadside at Ashill.

Three people were jailed for life as a result of the investigation.

Nick Gargan said: “I am delighted to present these awards to those police officers, staff and members of the public who have shown an outstanding commitment and dedication to Avon and Somerset Constabulary in the line of duty.”

The family of Catherine Wells-Burr feel the awards were well-deserved.

Her mother, Jayne, said: “We would like to congratulate Avon and Somerset Police on their nine awards.

“They dedicated so many hours to Catherine's case to secure the conviction. We would like to acknowledge that they went above and beyond.”