Twelve months after quelling one of the country's worst riots, the front line officers have been recognised as Britain's bravest bobbies.

In searing heat, and suffering from extreme exhaustion, the men and women refused to break ranks despite an eight-hour onslaught of petrol bombs, bricks, scaffolding and even hijacked cars.

Yesterday, every West Yorkshire and British Transport Police officer drafted into the 'Battle for Bradford' were jointly named as being among the country's most courageous.

Graham Moore, the county's chief constable, and three of the 318 officers injured on July 7 represented their colleagues at a Downing Street reception and ceremony at the Dorchester Hotel.

The Police Bravery Awards was arranged by the National Police Federation which represents rank-and-file officers.

Richard Critchley from the West Yorkshire branch said: "But for the courage, dedication and devotion to duty shown by every officer that night, over long periods, though exhausted, bleeding and outnumbered, there is no doubt the rioters would have stormed the city centre."

He added: "The awful consequences to life and property that would have ensued can only be imagined."

Mr Critchley said these officers had stood firm against the worst disorder on mainland Britain for 20 years until reinforcements were brought in from across northern England.

PC Nick Berry, who was seriously injured by a missile after six hours on the front line, was one of the officers who attended the ceremony.

He recalls the moment when a missile struck his foot, breaking a bone and severing an artery.

"No matter how much training you receive, it just doesn't prepare you. Most people were not expecting the level of ferocity we faced," he said.

But while as many of their colleagues were dragged injured from the police lines, those remaining stood firm, fully aware of what was at stake.