The Isle of Man Constabulary’s newest recruits recently attended a graduation ceremony at the Villa Marina to mark the successful completion of their initial training.

The 10 student officers will now start work in one of the Neighbourhood Policing Teams under the supervision of an experienced colleague. They will serve as probationary constables for two years, performing a wide range of duties including investigating crime, arresting and interviewing suspects, taking witness statements, dealing with traffic issues and responding to the needs of the public.

Chief Constable Gary Roberts said: ‘These officers have completed a rigorous selection process and training programme and will now be deployed on patrol to serve the local community. Modern police work is unique. Officers never know what situation they may be called upon to resolve. It involves dealing with people from all walks of life in many different circumstances. Our new recruits will strengthen our efforts to keep the Island safe.’

The progression of this latest intake of officers continues the programme of succession planning within the Isle of Man Constabulary. New student constables are needed to join the organisation to maintain policing numbers when experienced officers retire.

A further six officers who have completed their two-year probationary period received their official Warrants of Establishment at the graduation event.

Home Affairs Minister Juan Watterson MHK said: ‘I had the pleasure of attending the graduation ceremony and I wish our new student constables well as they embark on a career in law enforcement. The Isle of Man Constabulary continues to provide a high level of public service and this can only be achieved by employing people who possess strong values and the right mix of skills. This latest intake will support efforts to build the Constabulary to its establishment figure of 211 officers.’

The 10 new police recruits are Lewis Cassidy, Kirsty Finn, Lisa Fitzgerald, Greg Gronowski, Stephanie Leece, Ari Ludford-Brooks, Elizabeth Partridge, Amy Speed, Stephen Hay and Daniel Willson.

The six officers who received their Warrants of Establishment after completing their probation are Louise Seed, Adam Tomlinson, Chloe Keegan, Sally Hardy, Gemma Berry and Matthew Davison.

Another group of new recruits will begin their initial training in January 2016.

Photo - Courtesy of Ruth Gale Photography.