Blue lamps to be installed across Rutland police stations
The aim is to make police more visible in the community
Last updated 20th Mar 2024
Police stations across Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland are to receive Victorian-style blue lamps in an effort make police more visible in communities.
Coinciding with the Neighbourhood Policing Week of Action, Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland Police and Crime Commissioner Rupert Matthews has announced plans to fund several Mercia Lanterns – a replica of the Victorian Police Lantern first used in London in the 1800s.
They are often considered a symbol of law and order in Britain, spanning several generations.
The lamps were originally used to help people easily identify a police station, seen as a place of safe refuge and help to the public – something the PCC says he wants to see recreated today.
It's hoped they will connect the police more closely to the communities they serve.
Mr Matthews said: “The Blue Lamp is an iconic piece of British policing history and symbolises not only law, order and justice, but safety and sanctuary.
"These values are just important to our communities today and this is just one of the many ways I aim to reconnect residents with the policing values of the past.
“As Commissioner, I have made it my mission to increase confidence and trust in local policing.
"The visible presence of a police officer or police station at the heart of a community has always offered immeasurable reassurance to residents.
"This symbolic gesture will help to remind people that the police take their safety seriously and are there to provide help when it is needed.”
Neighbourhood Policing Week of Action takes place between January 22 and 26 to highlight the work of neighbourhood officers, police community support officers (PCSOs) and volunteers.