Essex Police welcomed in 76 new officers to the force at a socially distanced ceremony.

The newly graduated officers stood 2.5 metres apart as they were sworn in on Friday, May 22.

Officers were trained in reduced sized classrooms with many sessions held online.

These measures are “unprecedented” in the 180-year history of Essex Police, bosses say.

Chief constable Ben-Julian Harrington said: “Today’s event is testament to the hard work and determination of the officers, and of course their trainers, in completing their studies under strict restrictions.

“I know many of you are not just colleagues, you’re friends, and it’s been a while since some of you have seen each other. I really hope you had a special day together.

“I'm proud to say your family and friends are being sent videos of the day to thank them for their continued support.

He added: "It's important that we continue to mark the achievements of our officers in the face of the pandemic and these events shows our commitment in the recruitment of officers.

“I would like to wish our new officers every success and I hope you will all welcome them, just like I have today.”

There are now 3,293 officers in Essex Police.

Force bosses say they are “on track” to recruit a target of 3,369 officers by March 2021.

Last month, Essex Police had 472 people apply to work as a either a detective or regular officer - the highest ever number of applications in month

From these applications, almost half (43 per cent) were from women and 11 per cent were from a BAME background.

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