Essex Police have welcomed the first of 150 new officers after they were put through their paces during 18 weeks of intense training.
The 56 new officers were welcomed in a passing out ceremony at the force’s headquarters in Chelmsford.
They are the first of 150 new officers paid for by the increase in the force’s part of council tax.
After pledging their commitment to serve the residents of Essex, the new police officers were welcomed into the force in front of their loved ones by chief constable Ben-Julian Harrington, as well as deputy police, fire and crime commissioner Jane Gardner and director general of the Independent Office for Police Conduct, Michael Lockwood.
Mr Harrington thanked the officers for all of their hard work during their training and wished them well in their future roles.
He said: “I want to welcome our amazing police constables at my first passing out parade as chief constable. Congratulations to all of you.
“As the first of our 150 additional officers to protect Essex, a great deal will be expected of you but I have no concerns from the discussions that I’ve had with you today that you’ll deliver.
“This job really is like no other and involves testing your patience and ability to provide fairness.
“As an officer you will be asked to do three things - help people, keep them safe and catch the baddies. I look forward to hearing the stories about you doing just that.
“You’re at the starting point in your career and you’ve joined a force that I could not be more proud to lead.”
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