Yesterday marked the 20th anniversary of the creation of the Police Community Support Officer, and one of the first PCSOs continues to protect communities in Sunderland.

The role was created ion July 24 in 2002 when it was given royal assent by Queen Elizabeth II.

The legislation paved the way for the first-ever batch of PSCOs to take to the streets across the country.

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With a range of powers to assist police officers they would act as a permanent presence in the community.

PCSO Mick Casey was one of just 13 in the first intake in December 2003 and has been serving communities of Sunderland since.

This week, ahead of Sunday’s anniversary, PCSO Casey was met by Chief Constable Winton Keenen QPM who thanked him personally for his service.

Chief Constable Keenen said it was a “real pleasure” to catch up with PCSO Casey, and thanked all other PCSOs across the country:

He added: “Over the last two decades, the role of a PCSO has changed somewhat – but what has remained constant is their passion, enthusiasm and desire to deliver an outstanding service to our communities.”

PCSO Casey said that at the time, “nobody really knew what the role would entail as it was brand new.”

He added: “But I’d spent the last 20 years as a joiner, saw the opportunity and thought ‘let’s give it a try’.

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“The whole idea was for PCSOs to patrol the footbeat, helping to bridge the gap between police and the public. Look at the name – PCSO – it says police and community. We’re here to help both.”

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