This morning, 148 officers were attested at Police Now’s National Graduate Leadership Programme academy.

The officers were welcomed by Assistant Chief Constable Matt Ward of West Midlands Police, who said: “It is genuinely my honour and delight to be one of the first senior officers to welcome you into UK policing. In a few moments, you’re going to say 96 words. Those 96 words are going to change your lives.”

Leading the attestation ceremony, Justice of the Peace and Deputy Bench Chair of the East London Justice Area, Tina Hayhow, said: “Today is a hugely important day. It’s one to mark the official commencement of your service and to the people of England and Wales, but you’re also the first officers in the United Kingdom to swear your allegiance to King Charles III – it’s an immense honour and milestone that you should celebrate.”

These officers will be deployed across eight partner forces following their academy training.