On public patrol  

Uniformed services students saw the streets of Walsall through the eyes of local police officers during a patrol activity through Walsall Town Centre.

12 students donned hi-vis jackets and teamed up with eight officers from the local St Matthew’s Police team.  The activity was inspired by Street Watch; a community-led initiative where members of the public carry out street patrols.

Adam Comery, Curriculum Manager for Public Services said: “This was a hugely beneficial exercise for the students.  They saw how officers engaged with all the different people they came across during the patrol and promoted community safety.”

The students are hoping to participate in further patrols over the coming months.

Praising the students, Police Community Officer Rachel Gallier said: “We were impressed with their professionalism and how they conducted themselves within Walsall town centre, where they met local security guards and shop workers.  While doing so they continued to keep members of the public safe.

“We were very proud to work alongside the students and look forward to our next patrol.  This great community initiative helps to make Walsall town centre a safe place to shop, work and enjoy socialising.”

Inspector Tony Eustace, from Walsall Police, added: “Walsall College has been fantastic in its approach to partnership with the police. The Street Watch initiative is another example of how engaged the college is when it comes to contributing to keeping Walsall safer.

“The uniformed services students are a fantastic addition to our work in Walsall town centre, and will work with local officers to promote community safety.”

The college is also in the process of developing a Police Cadet Detachment programme starting in February 2020.