A fearless police officer has been praised for his bravery when attempting to detain a gunman in Salford.
PC Daniel Clayton from Greater Manchester Police’s Salford district has been presented with the Salford Bravery Award for his outstanding courage in the face of extreme danger.
The description he gave while confronting an armed offender at Albert Park on 20 May 2025 allowed Greater Manchester Police to bring the culprit to justice and remove a loaded firearm from the streets.
The high-risk incident occurred near the Broughton Park when plain-clothed Salford Challenger officers spotted a man on an e-bike wearing a balaclava.
The suspect, later identified as Jay Conway, stole a bike and made off onto Great Clowes Street.
After hearing a radio transmission about this, PC Clayton deployed and quickly located Conway.
PC Clayton attempted to detain him following a short pursuit, but after a struggle, Conway reached for a loaded firearm concealed in his sock and pointed it directly at PC Clayton.
Despite being at gunpoint and facing an immediate threat to his life, PC Clayton remained calm, issued commands, and tactically retreated while the offender continued to aim the weapon at him.
His comprehensive descriptions meant that Conway was arrested 24 hours later, after an extensive investigation by the Salford Challenger Team and GMP’s Critical Wanted Unit involving forensic analysis of the phone and CCTV.
Conway was later sentenced to 14 years’ imprisonment for possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life.
Police Constable Daniel Clayton said: “I am honoured to receive this award for bravery after what happened.
“It was a challenging and difficult situation that I was in and under extreme pressure, but I am proud of how I acted and as a result it led to a loaded firearm being taken off our streets and reduced any further risk to the public.
“I am proud of what I do working for Greater Manchester Police and will always remain my priority to act upon situations which poses any risk to the public as it is my job to protect the community and bring justice to these offenders.”
Salford Neighbourhood Inspector Matt Christian said that PC Clayton’s conduct on that day exemplified the highest standards of policing.
He added: “Faced with a sudden, life-threatening confrontation involving a loaded firearm at close range, he showed extraordinary courage, resilience and professionalism.
“His actions protected both himself and the public, and he continued to perform his duties with clarity and dedication despite the life-threatening personal risk.
“I am extremely proud of Daniel, as are his colleagues.”
Salford District Commander Neil Blackwood said: “Dan epitomises bravery. He knew the person he was trying to find had a gun and that his colleagues were in danger.
“Despite the risk, he went ahead and managed to tackle him from a bike and made efforts to detain him.”
Mr Blackwood added: The subject then pointed the loaded firearm at him and the body-worn video speaks for itself.
“Dan has reflected on this incident, particularly given that he has a young child, but his focus throughout was on protecting his colleagues and the public from a dangerous armed offender.
“The courage, professionalism and selflessness he displayed that day were exceptional.”
PC Clayton will also be appearing on Crimewatch later in the year talking all about this experience and the pride he takes in his work.
