Dozens of students from Spelthorne schools faced off for the second annual Cop Cup at Halliford School in Shepperton during June.
The contest, organised by the Safer Neighbourhood Team, sees officers and PCSOs from across the borough joining pupils’ teams for a series of games.
As well as the competition for the trophy, young people who are currently in Year 9 had the opportunity to take part in a range of activities, including tug of war competitions and sporting challenges organised by Active Surrey.
Brentford FC also attended to chat to attendees and hand out kit, and officers involved in conflict training gave demonstrations with riot shields and fake ‘pepper spray’.
The event aims to help build relationships and trust between Surrey Police teams and students, as well as diverting young people away from crime.
Relationship building
Police and Crime Commissioner Lisa Townsend and Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner Ellie Vesey-Thompson enjoyed the final game, which saw Halliford pupils facing off against students from Thomas Knyvett in Ashford.
Thomas Knyvett’s team eventually lifted the trophy, which was presented by the Deputy Commissioner.
Spelthorne’s Borough Commander Matt Walton then gave a speech to commemorate the day before students boarded buses back to school.
Lisa said: “It is such a pleasure for Ellie and I to join events like these.
“Every student was polite and well-mannered, and I hope they all had a fantastic time.
“Such a pleasure”
“Officers and PCSOs enjoyed the opportunity to chat to young people and help break down some barriers.
“Their work today will build relationships that I believe will last long into the future.
“We saw some truly sportsmanlike behaviour, and I’d like to thank everyone who gave their time to make the event as wonderful as it was.
“I look forward to joining the current Year 8s next year.”