Police motorcyclist achieves force first

A member of our roads proactive and harm prevention team has become the first female officer from our force family to achieve a prestigious motorcycle qualification.

Advanced motorcyclist, PC Anya Pearson, recently completed the week-long VIPEX (VIP Escort) course in Yorkshire, something only three other female officers have done nationally.

VIPEX is a system where a minimum of four qualified riders escort a convoy of two to five cars staffed with armed protection officers travelling with VIPs. This includes members of the royal family and politicians.

This kind of motorcycle escort is designed to allow someone or something to move safely and quickly from one location to another.

Skilled riders like PC Pearson are there to ensure the safe movement of the vehicle, or vehicles, and the safety of the VIP, public and other officers involved.

She explains: “We are able to take control of junctions and traffic lights and slow or bring traffic and pedestrians to a temporary stop as a convoy makes its progress.

“Some escorts flow with the normal traffic, obeying all traffic laws. At other times, roads will be closed while the escort passes at high speeds.

“The training was tough but I am delighted to bring these new skills and the qualification back to force.”

Sergeant Anthony McKenzie, from our proactive and harm prevention team, added: “Only three other female officers in England and Wales currently hold the VIPEX qualification, so we are understandably incredibly proud of Anya.

“The course is very demanding and requires the very highest riding skills and levels of concentration.”

The team is currently accepting transferees. More information, here: https://staffordshirepolice.tal.net/vx/lang-en-GB/mobile-0/appcentre-3/brand-3/xf-7c65139dd942/candidate/so/pm/6/pl/1/opp/2305-Transferee-Opportunities-PC-Road-Crime-Team/en-GB