Tooting Town Centre’s police unit has been named London’s best community force at this year’s Met Excellence Awards.

They were selected ahead of Burnt Oak and Tottenham Green, in Barnet and Haringey boroughs respectively, for the Safer Neighbourhood Team of the Year crown on March 9.

The annual awards ceremony aims to celebrate and recognise the work done by the Metropolitan Police’s units across the capital.

Wandsworth’s Detective Chief Superintendent Peter Laverick said: “I am delighted the work of the Tooting neighbourhood team has been recognised. They are extremely capable and are committed to providing the best possible service to their community.

“This award showcases the talent of neighbourhood officers across the borough and their work underpins everything we try to achieve in the Metropolitan Police Service.”

LBC radio’s Nick Ferrari presented the awards in front of more than 350 officers, staff, volunteers, as well as family and friends and more.

A Met Police spokesman said Tooting Town Centre’s unit was able to identify eight gang members from a rap video published on YouTube, who were later prosecuted for 33 offences – including drug supply and possession of weapons.

They were also able to execute 50 warrants and weapon sweeps, resulting in more than 100 weapons being recovered and £150,000 worth of drugs.

Inspector Barrie Captor, the team’s inspecting nominating officer, added: “The team have fully engaged their diverse community, supported national faith celebrations, investigated and prosecuted those involved in drug markets and gangs and kept their community safe.

“They are a professional unit, dedicated to working to safeguard their local residents.”