CHIEF Constable BJ Harrington pledged to re-build the bond of trust between the public and policing.

In a speech in front of 55 new officers who passed out today (Friday 8 October) he said he accepted this challenge.

Mr Harrington’s full speech is below:

“Welcome to the first full passing out parade of new officers joining Essex Police after the restrictions during Covid. I am pleased that we can celebrate the success of our new officers, both in W intake and our latest Police Now cohort.

“55 Officers with different backgrounds, skills and experience joining a diverse, innovative and responsive force.

“Welcome also to your families, friends and loved ones. Essex is proud to be a family force and one that draws from the communities that it polices.

“That is why it is so great for the first time in 18 months to welcome you as not only part of our police family but as a part of the community of Essex. You, our communities and our officers and staff have been through so much and to it is so good to see you here today.

“A warm welcome to the Policing Minister, Mr Kit Malthouse, and of course our Police Fire and Crime Commissioner, Mr Roger Hirst.

“Welcome also to colleagues from across the force from the Home Office and the media.

“Also a huge welcome to Bishop Roger Morris, the Bishop of Colchester who also joins us.

“I must pay special tribute to Bishop Roger for his support to the force in response to Covid19 where he was an active and operational member of the Strategic Coordination Group as well as for his guidance in chairing our reward and recognition panel for staff and officers from policing and the National Crime Agency who were involved in the conviction of those responsible for the tragic deaths of the women, men and children who died so tragically in the back of a lorry in Purfleet in 2019.