Graduation day for new force's first trainees

The first trainees from Northern Ireland’s new police force were today preparing to graduate at an historic ceremony in Belfast.

The event was also marking the first public use of the uniform, crest and service flag brought in as part of Royal Ulster Constabulary reforms.

With representatives of the four main churches attending, a Police Service of Northern Ireland spokesman stressed the 44 fledgling officers have received vital backing.

He said: ‘‘They are graduating with broad cross-community support.’’

The recruits graduating at Garnerville police college in the east of the city were the first intake to successfully complete their training after joining the new force.

Although acting chief constable Colin Cramphorn was due to be the reviewing officer, his predecessor Ronnie Flanagan was attending as a distinguished guest.

The former Northern Ireland police chief was due to speak at the ceremony while Pat Byrne, Ireland's Garda Commissioner , was attending as an honoured guest.

Despite speculation that Chris Patten would be invited, the former Hong Kong Governor who produced the blueprint for reforming the RUC was not due to attend today’s event.

The keynote speaker was Professor Gerry McKenna, vice chancellor at the University of Ulster.