Met Women's 'On The Beat' Anniversary

It is 90 years since the first female Metropolitan Police officers donned their uniforms and began policing London.

To celebrate this milestone an event was held this week, hosted by Martin Tiplady Director of Human Resources, at the official MPS historical archives 'The Met Collection' in West Brompton.

It was attended by retired and serving female officers from across the MPS and recalled how, back in 1919 the first 'Metropolitan Police Women Patrols' took to the streets, led by Mrs Sofia Stanley, Superintendent in charge assisted by Mrs Elinor Robinson and three sergeants; Grace Russell, Patty Alliot and Lilian Wyles each looking after one of London's three districts.

Today, the MPS has continued to build upon those foundations, with one in four officers and over 8,000 are female now exist, some of whom lead on the policing agenda.

This year the MPS celebrated the appointment of the most senior female officer in the history of the MPS, that of Cressida Dick to the role of Assistant Commissioner, Specialist Crime.

Martin Tiplady - Director of Human Resources said: "It's easy to forget but the pioneering attitude of the first female police officers made a significant impact on policing and London.

"The resolve and determination of those early officers - often in the face of extreme adversity - clearly said something about the resilience and fortitude of the Met and our officers both past and present, of whom I am really proud to be associated with.

"This event is an opportunity to reflect on the special contribution women have made to policing London over the past 90 years, to look forward to the future by building on our achievements in recruitment, development and retention and to inspire officers from different generations to meet and share their experiences."

Cressida Dick Assistant Commissioner, Specialist Crime said: "The Metropolitan Police Service has changed substantially, even during the time that I have been here.

"Many courageous and pioneering women over the last 90 years have overcome barriers to prove that all jobs within the Met are suitable for both sexes.

"The Met is an immensely rewarding, interesting and challenging place to work and I would encourage other women who want a fulfilling career to consider joining and taking the organisation through the next 90 years."

Catherine Crawford Chief Executive, Metropolitan Police Authority said: "I am very proud to represent the Metropolitan Police Authority at this celebration of 90 years of women in policing. During the nine years the Authority has existed we have been working hard with the Met to help bring about modernisation in our police service.

"I congratulate everyone who has contributed to this achievement over the years and I am confident that present day colleagues will continue to drive forward equalities and fairness for all in the Met."

(BMcC/GK)