The county’s newest police officers have taken to the streets after completing their training.

The group of 18 was welcomed to Essex by the county’s chief constable Stephen Kavanagh at their passing out parade in Chelmsford.

Alongside new police constables, the intake consists of PCSOs special constables, detention officers, a communication officer, a case worker and a crime bureau investigator.

Mr Kavanagh said: “You’re now part of a fantastic organisation whose people regularly run towards issues and danger while others, rightly, walk away.”

The county’s police and crime commissioner Nick Alston thanked the trainers who had inspired them to be passionate about policing.

He added: “It’s not always easy every day to be enthusiastic but please do, because the people of Essex depend on you.”

The event also saw student officer PC Laura Stone awarded the prize for best demonstrating the core values expected of a police constable.

She said: “I didn’t expect it at all.

“I just can’t wait to get stuck in.”