Art students design rainbow police uniform for Ely Pride

A senior police officer attending Ely Pride event was spotted sporting a unique piece of uniform for the occasion thanks to two students from Cambridge Regional College.

Superintendent James Sutherland, who attended the event with a number of colleagues from the force, wore a police helmet, which had been specially designed and painted by Anna Strivens and Emily Pieters.

The duo designed and painted the hat in rainbow colours to fit with the Pride theme which became a big hit at the event.

Supt Sutherland said: “We had such a fantastic day. It’s hugely important that we attend these events to show our support and love for the lives and rights of the LGBT+ community. Sadly, this group of people still have to endure hate and discrimination and we want to show we will not tolerate it.

“I attended the event with a team of nine officers and cadets who gave up their free time to go along. We met so many wonderful people and took one of our cars and plenty of Pride-related materials for people to look at.

“The ‘Pride Custodian’ helmet was specially designed by some very talented students. It’s pretty spectacular and was photographed a lot- which is great because it will help spread our message of support to the LGBT+ community.”

“I love how Anna and Emily have managed to capture the spirit of Pride, while retaining the integrity and iconic features of the hat. It is now proudly displayed at police headquarters and I will be sure to bring it out for other Pride events and special occasions to show my support and solidarity with our LGBT+ community.”

Michelle Dowse, Deputy Principal for Cambridge Regional College, said: “Ely Pride 2019 was a huge success with hundreds joining together to celebrate. We are delighted to have been a part of such an important inclusive event celebrating diversity in our community.”

• Hate crime is a priority area for the force and they urge anyone who has been the victim or witness of a hate crime, to report it here:  www.met.police.uk/true-vision-report-hate-crime/
• Link to LGBT Cambs Cops Facebook https://www.facebook.com/pg/CambsCopsLGBT/posts/

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