56 new Essex Police officers today welcomed by Commissioner at Passing Out Parade
Fifty-six newly qualified police officers marched in front of their loved ones and invited dignitaries at their Passing Out Parade.
The recruits have just completed 22 weeks at Essex Police College where they took part in classroom learning and practical exercises to challenge and develop them as operational officers.
They have also been assessed against the national standard by carrying out knowledge-based examinations and practical assessments.
Roger Hirst MBE, Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner for Essex, congratulated the new officers during the ceremony at Essex Police Headquarters in Chelmsford and said: “It is a real pleasure to see you here this afternoon and to welcome you to Essex Police on behalf of the people of Essex.
“People tell me how much they value you, the difference you make to their lives, keeping them safe and allowing them to go about their day and to flourish and look after their families. They could not do that without your support.
“They want you to be out there. They want to see you and know you are out there. They want to see you driving down drug crime, busting County Lines and cutting down the violence against women and girls. And, they very much want to see your contribution to road safety as bad driving is our biggest killer.
“I can tell you that they really value you. It really is the police being a part of the public that makes Essex a better place to live. You will make a difference to them through the contact you have with them.
“It is an amazing thing you do.
“I am here to offer you my support, the support of the people of Essex and to wish you success and joy in what can be a challenging but enormously rewarding career.”
The new recruits braved the cold, wind and sleet to take part in the passing out parade at Essex Police HQ attended by the Commissioner, Deputy Chief Constable Rachel Nolan, His Majesty’s Deputy Lieutenant for Essex Sidra Naeem, High Sheriff of Essex Julie Fosh, Lieutenant Colonel Ed Rankin, Colchester Garrison Commander, and friends and family.