YOUNGSTERS joined their school's new mini-police force at a special ceremony with some high-profile guests.

Year 5 pupils at Tadpole Farm Primary Academy received certificates, police hats and hi-vis jackets from the High Sheriff of Wiltshire Nicky Alberry, Chief Constable Keir Pritchard and other officers.

The 16-strong team promised to respect their community and use their school values during their duties.

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Anna Salter said: "It's a brilliant scheme and we are really grateful and lucky to be one of three schools in Swindon to be part of it, it's amazing to be given this opportunity.

"The pupils were really excited and proud, they're looking forward to starting their first day on Monday.

"It's great that they can get involved and learn more to better understand what the police have to deal with."

Proud parents and younger classmates watched the ceremony in the school hall.

Wiltshire Police will arrange activities for the mini-police force to do, including traffic calming, addressing parking problems around the school, litter picking, and perhaps an arranged visit to Gablecross Police Station.

Police pupils will also ask their parents about issues they can help resolve in and around the school.

PCSO Fryszka, Inspector Bridge, PC Barnett, PC Khezizedeh, PCSO Scourfield, PCSO Baker and PC Birt also attended the ceremony yesterday.