It’s hats off to bobbies on the beat in Nantwich – officers will be wearing hard caps in future.
All Cheshire officers will now wear the unisex caps after a six-month trial in Northwich and Chester.
And Cheshire is the first force in the UK to make the change.
The caps will be given to most frontline officers, including sergeants, constables, inspectors and chief inspectors.
Police chiefs say they are replacing traditional flat caps as they are more rugged but lightweight and comfortable.
Chief Constable Simon Byrne said: “I want Cheshire officers to be equipped with the most appropriate uniform to carry out their jobs safely and effectively.
“Following internal and external consultations we’re introducing hard caps for most frontline police officers.
“This is a positive step for the force and great news for those working on the frontline.
“The caps are light but very rugged.
“Their size means officers can comfortably get in and out of vehicles without having to remove them, and their modern ventilation and lightness means they’re comfortable to wear all year-round.
“Feedback from our officers was positive.”
A proposal for the new head gear was first put forward in summer 2014.
Northwich and Chester LPUs have been trialling the hard caps for six months.
Officers completed a survey on their practicality and professional image and whether they think the caps should become a standard part of the uniform.
According to the force, almost 65% said the hard caps were practical, 70% said they had worn the hard cap more, and almost 90% said they should become a standard part of the uniform.
Cheshire Police is believed to be the only police force in the UK to have now equipped their officers with hard caps.
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