JOHN APTER, Hampshire Police Federation’s chairman, has issued a Christmas and New Year message.

“2016 has been a year of significant change for the constabulary,” he said. “We have a new Chief Constable, new Deputy Chief Constable and a new PCC. On your behalf I am working closely and effectively with the new top team although as you would expect we don’t always agree, but that will never stop me from making sure you have a strong and effective voice.

“Many officers will be working over Christmas, not seeing their loved ones, not being with their children as they open their presents. As a 24/7 emergency service this is what we expect to do but it’s important to know, despite what you may read in certain national papers that the vast majority of the public support what we do. It’s easy to forget this but something we should take comfort in.

“Over the past 12 months your local federation has invested in your welfare. We have the welfare cottages which have been massively supported by officers and their families. In October I took great pride in unveiling the memorial to fallen colleagues, this was something we have waited far too long for but at long last we have something which will ensure those we have lost are never forgotten.”

He added: “We know the year ahead will be a challenging one, with more change and more challenges it is more important than ever that we stick together and look after each other.”