I am writing in response to Councillor Tom Wareing's comments (Redditch Advertiser, November 5).
As a female police officer working on the streets of Redditch and as a female who served in the Royal Navy for six years, I am outraged to read such sexist comments, especially from someone in such a position of authority.
Policing today isn't just a question of physical strength.
It's much more about communication and intelligence and these are much more likely to help make Redditch safe than feats of strength ever will.
High importance is attached to all aspects of training at West Mercia and the training in defence skills has the priority it deserves, both for male and female officers.
However, our diversity training is just as important - this means we afford the same level of care and consideration to every member of our community, whatever their colour, race, age, religion or sex.
I expect the same respect myself and strongly object to the implied criticism that female officers are less effective than our male counterparts.
Policing has moved forwards considerably over recent years and we recognise that different people will bring different skills to the force.
It appears to me that Councillor Wareing has old-fashioned views and needs to take a good look at the diverse and ever-changing society that we live in and that I have the privilege to help police.
PC Kate Massey
Redditch Police Station
Grove Street
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