A former chef, a PE teacher and two ex-soldiers were among the 49 new police officers welcomed to Team Herts last week at a special graduation ceremony.

Family and friends joined the student officers as they celebrated the end of their 22-week initial training courses at Police HQ in Welwyn Garden City on Friday 29 August.

Chief Constable Andy Prophet, who presented each officer with a framed certificate of achievement, said: "Many hundreds if not thousands of people want to become police officers. Only the very best of the best make it to where you are stood today.

"Our job is to catch criminals and solve crime, to deal with the bad people, our job is law enforcement. Get out there on the streets of Hertfordshire, be relentless and determined to catch car thieves, burglars, robbers, violent and sexual offenders.

"That is our job, it's something only you can do, and it's something you should be hugely proud of. Policing is not always easy, you'll be tested, and you'll be challenged, but you will be supported by me, your senior leaders, your friends and family and the overwhelming majority of people in Hertfordshire who support you and what you do."

The Chief was joined by Hertfordshire Police and Crime Commissioner, Jonathan Ash-Edwards, High Sheriff Nicholas Buxton and Deputy Lieutenant Liz Green.

PC Thomas Beeton, PC Joshua James and PC Sam Thornton were each presented with the Andy Hutchings Endeavour Award, created in remembrance of a much-loved police trainer who sadly died earlier this year.

Hertfordshire Police and Crime Commissioner, Jonathan Ash-Edwards said: "Seeing another group of new recruits join Hertfordshire Constabulary is hugely encouraging and reflects our ongoing commitment to strengthening the frontline. Each of these officers brings new energy and skills that will make a real difference in tackling crime and supporting victims. With record numbers now serving across the county, the public can have confidence that we are investing in visible, local policing for the long term. I wish them all the best in their new careers."

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The three cohorts were full of career changers, including two former Force Communications Room staff, a telecoms engineer, former cabin crew and three pub/restaurant managers. 

Inspired? Team Herts are currently open for applications for police officers via the two-year Police Constable Entry Programme (PCEP) route. Find out more and apply at: www.herts.police.uk/careers.