MORE than 500 police officers from Hampshire and the Isle of Wight will be seconded to the London 2012 Olympics this summer.
Hampshire Constabulary will provide an estimated 506 officers for a total of 68 days between June 4 and September 16, providing support at Olympic venues and during the nationwide torch relay. The team will include regular beat officers as well as highly trained specialists from the force’s firearms and dog support units.
Police bosses confirmed between two and 192 officers would be deployed on any one day and pledged core policing services would be maintained across the two counties during the event.
Annual leave has been restricted, non-essential training postponed and special constables and volunteers will be on hand to provide community support.
Chief Supt Chris Shead, who is heading Hampshire Constabulary’s policing for the 2012 Olympic Games, said: "Our officers are very proud to be a part of this. In Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, our focus will be very much around ensuring the torch relay passes through our area safely, and the vast range of associated community events are enjoyed by all.
"We have carefully balanced our Olympic commitments with our normal activities so that as far as possible we can maintain business as usual. We are confident we will continue to deliver a quality service to the communities of the two counties while also assisting the national policing effort."
Reporter: emilyp@iwcpmail.co.uk