NEW volunteer police officers who will patrol the streets around Essex have been sworn in.

A total of 14 Special Constables were handed their warrant cards during a special ceremony on Monday.

The event, which was held at Essex Police's headquarters in Chelmsford, saw the new specials sworn into the force in front of friends and families.

Other members of the audience included assistant chief con Andy Prophet, Dawn Roche, Justice of the Peace, and Jane Gardner, Deputy Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner for Essex.

Two of the new specials, Casey Burgess and Eleanor Wright, have been assigned to the Braintree community policing team.

Chief Supt Cat Barrie, said: "It’s a new decade and a new year and I can’t think of a better way to start it – by welcoming 14 people to our force family.

"There are some really exciting projects going on within the special constabulary to help people to innovate and to lead.

"The new year brings new challenges and aspirations and last week we received 22 special constable applications.

“We always welcome applicants. If you feel it’s for you, then please apply."

Visit essex.police.uk.