Meet the police officers keeping Erewash safe this Christmas

We’d like you to meet PC Joe Dunn, who will this year be teaming up with his colleague PC Sophie Wright for his first ever Christmas shift.

Joe and Sophie will be covering the Erewash area this Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and Boxing Day.

They will then return to work on New Years Eve, for another shift together.

PC Dunn said: “I’ve worked the Christmas run up before when I was a Special Constable, but this is my first actual Christmas on duty.

“If I wasn’t at work I would just be eating everything, watching Christmas films and enjoying walks with the family and the dogs. Instead, I will just do this in between my shifts and have a really early Christmas dinner with my family before I start at midday.”

Opposite to this, this is PC Wright’s fourth time working at Christmas, having worked in the Force Control Room before joining as a Regular.

She said: “I’m used to not having the break to be honest. Everyone that is working is going to bring some food and we will spend some time together where we can.

“With our shift it is like having Christmas with our second family. We are all here together so will make it special for each other.

“I too will be having my Christmas dinner before coming to work. We’ve also got a nice family games night planned for Christmas Eve so I will get most of my celebrations then!”

Both Joe and Sophie are looking forward to seeing people spending time with family and friends this year.

PC Wright added said: “Last year was tough as people couldn’t meet up. This year people are busy doing things and seeing their loved ones after a year of restrictions, so hopefully everyone will be in a good mood!”

If you are meeting up with friends, remember the current guidance and consider testing before you meet.

PC Dunn added: “Stay safe this Christmas, and look after one another. If you’re heading out please don’t drink and drive no matter how easy it may be to get behind the wheel after drinking. Make it a Christmas to remember for the right reasons.”