Former Eastbourne undertaker among 18 new recruit constables at Sussex Police

The attestation ceremony took place with covid safety measures in place, while proud family members and friends watched via Zoom.

Among the recruits was PC Nathan Strudwick, who gave up his career as an undertaker in Eastbourne to pursue his dream career.

“I am really looking forward to working within a team to protect the public in these challenging times,” he said.

“Having worked in the funeral profession for five years, I am used to supporting people compassionately through tough times, especially during the Covid epidemic.

“I hope to use this experience and skill in my work as a police officer to make a difference to individuals’ lives when they need us most.”

Deputy Chief Constable Julia Chapman said: “I am delighted to welcome these new officers to the force – and it was a pleasure to formally meet them earlier this week.

“They have commenced their policing career at a challenging time, and each is enthusiastic and determined to make a positive difference to communities and individuals when they join their new teams across Sussex in June.

“I wish them all every luck in their new career.

“I am proud that through the hard work and innovation of our training teams we have trained 279 recruit police officers since lockdown began in March 2020, as well as 70 PCSO apprentices, through adapting to meet social distancing regulations.

“In the last financial year this has seen a net increase of more than 179 police constables, ensuring we keep our frontline strong and deliver on our priorities to protect communities, catch criminals and deliver an outstanding service.

“This growth is set to continue in the new financial year, with an uplift of 117 extra police officers to be funded by the national recruitment campaign and the council tax policing precept.”

The new officers will spend nine weeks training at the county police HQ in Lewes before joining dedicated coaching units in police stations countywide where they will continue their three year Police Constable Degree Apprenticeship on the streets, alongside a coach.