Politicians join police officers on the beat in Hackney

By Hackney Citizen | Wednesday 21 December 2016 at 16:01

Joining forces: Jennette Arnold meets Hatzola volunteers. Photograph: London Assembly Labour

Christmas is the busiest time of the year for London’s police, with revellers putting extra pressure on the officers keeping the capital safe.

A new initiative called ‘Walk the Met’ provides politicians with a chance to get an insight into the difficulties faced by officers as they cope with the extra demands of the festive period.

Labour’s London Assembly member Jennette Arnold was the first to take up the offer, joining PC Conrad Boddington and Inspector Jeoff Bull on their morning rounds in Hackney. Arnold said: “Our officers work hard all year round but seeing the extra challenges the festive period can bring was very insightful.

“It was a chance to see first-hand how officers have responded to growing pressure on resources and it was impressive to see that they are still able to deliver a professional service with diligence and dedication.”

During the walk, Arnold visited the home of Hatzola, a Jewish ambulance service run by volunteers, and met the local PC whose vigilance led to the discovery of a drug house and the arrests of a number of local dealers.

She added: “I am very supportive of the Walk the Met initiative and do hope it becomes a new Christmas tradition for Hackney and indeed for London.”

Hackney South MP Meg Hillier also got in on the act, meeting up with PC Dan Wheeler and Supt Edwards before posting pictures of her walk on Twitter. She said: “Top tips – beware a spate of towpath incidents and don’t use your mobile phone in the street.”

Met Commissioner Sir Bernard Hogan-Howe said: “It’s great that so many politicians are walking the streets with local police officers, getting a real feel about what policing London is about.

“At Christmas, officers continue to work around the clock and protect London whilst people are enjoying their festivities, so we hope this helps highlight the challenges our officers face and their year-round dedication.”

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