FIFTY new recruits to Essex Police Force have taken their oaths as they get ready to protect the region's communities and neighbourhoods.

Chief Constable Ben-Julian Harrington was joined by Police Fire & Crime Commissioner Roger Hirst, Lord Lieutenant of Essex Jennifer Tolhurst, High Sheriff Susannah Dutton and Garrison Sergeant Major WO1 Si Vono at the event at Essex Police HQ on Friday, 3 July.

Addressing the new officers CC Harrington, who will retire from the force shortly, said: "Officers you stand here today as many thousands have done before you over our force's proud 186-year history. Wearing the Essex Police badge, the symbol of all we believe in and represent, having sworn to serve our King and accepting our core mission to protect and serve the people of Essex.

"You, like the thousands of other officers, specials and police staff across the UK, have joined this job to do good, to stop bad and to make a difference – that's the most important part of the story.

"You join Essex Police at a time of change – when we have reshaped our force to do things differently and better, prioritising neighbourhood policing, protecting vulnerable people and working even harder to drive up trust and confidence in you, our officers.

"You join at a time when our officer numbers are the largest they have been in recent years with more than 3,700 across our force. Don't get me wrong, there will never be enough, but that's excellent progress in where we were ten years ago.

"As I reflect on my 36-year career and my forthcoming retirement it would be remiss of me not to share some reflections with you.

"Always put victims at the heart of all you do. In the darkest moments of their lives, you will be the only light, giving them a voice and justice. Always show them the greatest compassion, the greatest care and the very best service.

"Be the gatekeepers of our profession – we can only police with consent when we have the trust and confidence of the communities we serve. Keep our ethics and professionalism front and centre, always.

"Believe in what you do – there will be days that are dark and difficult and days where it feels like the critics are constantly rounding. Don't let that get in the way or overshadow the good – the lives you will save, the lives you will change, the justice you will serve, the voice you will give you victims. Those good things have an enduring legacy.

"And my final ask of you all: cherish Essex Police and the proud people who make up this force, for they and you are the very best of British policing."

Mr Hirst, said: "It is a great privilege to welcome our new officers who are starting their policing careers at today's pass out parade, supported by friends and family.

"At every public engagement I hear how Essex residents value officers, the difference officers 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 the support of all Essex Police officers.

"Ensuring people in Essex are safe is our main priority. The PFCC has a clear and detailed plan which balances the need for continuity in delivering frontline policing at a time of significant change.

"There are now more local, visible and accessible officers in Essex communities and our officers will be joining new expanded Neighbourhood Policing Teams across the county, delivering our ongoing commitment to frontline policing."