Lancashire police boss takes part in new recruits' kit inspection

Around 30 new recruits to Lancashire Constabulary took part in the inspection at Police Headquarters, which was undertaken by chief constable Chris Rowley along with Mr Snowden.

In August it was announced that Mr Snowden would be spending £40,000 of taxpayers money on replacing baseball caps with more traditional flat hats for the county’s police.

The traditional caps have returned as part of a drive to uphold standards and the baseball caps are continuing to be phased out.

Mr Snowden said: “Our officers should be the pillars of the community and their smart appearance is at the very heart of this. We want officers to embrace their uniform and what is symbolises and police our county with pride.

“As we continue to take the fight to criminals and deliver the priorities that matter most to the public, I will continue to work closely with the chief constable to ensure that the force in delivering the best possible service for the people of Lancashire.”

Chief constable Rowley added: “All of my staff are aware of the high standards that I expect from them and these inspections ensure these are upheld.

“The standard of their uniform reflects their levels of respect towards the job and their communities, and I will continue to work to make sure the county is getting the service they deserve.”

Baseball caps were introduced in 2016 as part of a new police uniform which included new black jackets, black body armour, lightweight high-vis jacket and black shirts.

Female officers were given the option of wearing bowler hats which include the force insignia, while traffic police were given traditional white flat caps.

Back when the plans were announced, Labour leader of Blackburn with Darwen Council Phil Riley said: "I don't see how it will help with the priorities that public have for policing.

"It seems and odd way to spend £40,000. There must be better ways of spending it."