14 newly trained Special Constables have officially joined the City of London Police including what the force hope will be their first ever mounted volunteer officer.

Special Constables are trained volunteers who work with and support their local police force and have the same powers as regular police constables. City of London Specials have been assisting their regular colleagues in policing the Square Mile for over 100 years.

During a passing out ceremony at the Honourable Artillery Company, City Road on Tuesday (13 March 2018), the new cohort were all officially given the legal power to act as a Constable by a Magistrate and presented with their warrant cards.

City of London Police Commissioner Ian Dyson attended the event to celebrate the commencement of their duties in policing and supporting the community of the City of London.

Mounted Special

In a force first, Vicky Smith will train to become a Mounted Special Constable after two years working as a City of London Police horse trainer at their Bushy site. She said of the decision:

“Prior to joining the City of London of Police as an equine trainer, I had worked for 12 years in the equine industry and I had always had an interest in joining the police force.

“Before I saw my current job advertised I was considering leaving the industry and applying to become a full-time officer. I was lucky enough to get the job, and therefore it was the perfect opportunity to continue working with horses at the same time as getting an insight into how the police work.

“I thoroughly enjoy my job as a trainer, so becoming a Special will give me the opportunity to develop a new skill set alongside giving me an extra insight into the role that I do as a trainer. I’m really looking forward to the challenges ahead.”