A Judge sitting in the Crown Court in Derby has powers under the Criminal Law Act 1826 to make an award after a Trial to a witness or other person who they think has been brave and helpful in apprehending an offender.  The sorts of bravery exhibited by the recipients of these awards can vary hugely.  The award made by the Judge is monetary  and the High Sheriff is ordered to pay that sum to the award recipient (albeit that the money is actually paid from Court funds).

The High Sheriff will hold a ceremony each year at which recipients of the awards will be presented with a certificate. It is usual for the Judge who made the award to attend the ceremony and to read a short citation about the reasons the award was given.