Police launch new uniform

Police officers' new 'modern' uniform.

Police Officers and PCSOs throughout Rochdale begin wearing their new operational uniform from today (Monday 1 June), following a successful trial last year.

Police officers will have a different uniform from PCSOs. Officers' uniform will be a black top with a zip and black trousers. PCSOs will wear the same style, but in royal blue.

Officers will keep their hats and high visibility coats, and will continue to wear body armour and a utility belt as normal.

The new uniform will replace the existing shirt, men's tie and women's cravat, and trousers.

Members of the public were consulted about the proposed change and also showed their support for the move to a more modern uniform.

A poll on GMP's website showed that 74% of the public were in support of modernising the uniform.

Superintendent Catherine Hankinson, who led the review of the operational uniform, said: "It is really important that our officers have a uniform that is comfortable and fit for their purpose, but that reflects the modern nature of their roles.

"The feedback we've had about the changes has been really positive, and I'm pleased that officers and the public have responded well to the change. It will be practical and enable them to do their sometimes difficult jobs, but will also mean they are clearly identifiable as officers and PCSOs to members of the public."