Nowadays, visibility is very important. We want officers on the street to be seen, to reassure and to comfort.

Policing 50 years ago looked very different to how it does today. Officers wore smart tunics, light blue shirts and highly polished shoes.

Female officers wore skirts, white shirts and carried a police issue handbag. The only protection officers had out on the streets was a truncheon and a radio. ​

Nowadays, visibility is very important. We want officers on the street to be seen, to reassure and to comfort. But not only that, they carry so many things for their own personal protection. Body armour has improved and is now made to measure, to ensure as much comfort as possible and the best protection. They have personal issue handcuffs, PAVA spray, taser, a baton and a body cam. ​

Whilst no one can argue that an officer in a smart tunic looks impressive, and makes an impression, it is a sad fact that officers today need more protection for the types of jobs they attend and when they get attacked. From day to day stab vests and protective sprays, to public order kit, NATO helmets and shields. Officer safety is paramount, so they can do their very important job, and still go home to their family.