A north-east MSP has joined local police officers for a day out on the beat.
Banffshire and Buchan Coast MSP, Stewart Stevenson, joined the Banff Community Policing Team as part of a scheme to offer a glimpse into the officers’ lives.
The Give a Day to Policing initiative had MSPs joining police across Scotland, giving them first-hand experience of the job.
While working alongside officers, Mr Stevenson was on the beat in Banff, walking the streets and then visited Tarlair, which has recently suffered cases of vandalism.
He said: “This was an exceptionally useful visit and I am grateful to the officers at Banff for giving me the opportunity to learn more about their daily responsibilities.
“It also provided an opportunity to see how policing and the expectation of the public in respect of policing has changed, reflecting the changing nature and complexity of crime, and the fact an increasing amount of time is spent helping safeguard vulnerable people.
“Spending some time with our local police gave a valuable first-hand insight into their day-to-day work, and a broader understanding of the operational challenges.
“It is difficult to overstate how important the work of Police Scotland is to our daily lives, and it is right that they are recognised for their significant contribution to our community.”
