Pupils from Walford Primary school were among several schools invited to join West Mercia Police to celebrate their 50th birthday. The pupils from the primary schools, ages five - eight years, were invited to join officers at Hindlip Hall (West Mercia Police Headquarters) to have an insight into what the police do, and how they work with partner agencies to keep the public safe.

As well as children from Walford, there were visits from Orleton School, Marlbrook Primary School, St Martins Primary School, Lord Scudamore Academy and Brockhampton Primary School.

There was plenty to both entertain and educate the children, with educational inputs on road safety, stranger danger and ’what the police do’ via interactive presentations.

After lunch, there was an opportunity for the children to look and play with police and fire service equipment, vehicles and see some of the police dogs in action, including the mascot, Peeler the Dog, who made an entrance and gave all the children an opportunity to meet him and have their photo taken.

The focus was on letting the children enjoy themselves, to encourage young people to engage with the police, now and in the future.

In the afternoon there was a chance for every class to help plant commemorative trees, which will help form a lasting landscape for the new Operational Command and Control building currently being built on the site. It was also a chance to get a little muddy.

Chief Superintendent Mark Travis said: “Each day has been a real success. It was great to be able to explain who we are and what we do, and at the same time see the children learn about how they can keep safe and protect themselves from harm, as well as have some real fun with the equipment we use and the tools of our trade.

“Whilst it is important to celebrate the past 50 years of our force, it is just as important to pass on how we will be here to protect them and support them as they grow in the future."