A CHELMSLEY Wood neighbourhood police officer has spoken about what life was like on the front line at the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games.
Sam Jackson is one of 2,000 new officers who have joined West Midlands Police since a recruitment drive began in 2019 and got to police a global event as his first major operation.
The 23-year-old previously worked in a range of jobs such as security, retail and hospitality.
He became a bobby on the beat last September after graduating through the Police Now programme, and says the opportunity to be part of policing the Commonwealth Games is proving a fantastic experience.
Sam said: “It is really exciting, I’ve spoken to a few of the athletes and they’ve been really friendly and appreciative of us being there.
“It’s the first time I’ve ever experienced anything on this scale and we’ve had lots of people coming up and chatting about the Games which is great.
“I really enjoy being a police officer, it is something which is constantly making me think and I like the variety of the role.
“Every day is different and although I’ve only been doing the job a short while I feel I’m continually developing.
“It’s really satisfying knowing you can help others, play a role in fighting crime, and really feel part of a community.”
Sam and his fellow students are
Anyone interested in a career with West Midlands Police should visit the force’s website.
