They were queuing to get in at Watford Police Station. It was the second year that the site had opened its doors to the public, and we arrived just before the start of the event.

Loads of different types of police vehicles were exhibited outside, including pursuit cars (including one with a ‘cell” seat’) and a riot van (including riot equipment!). Our little one enjoyed climbing inside a St John’s ambulance, and there were stalls from other groups affiliated with the police’s work (eg Neighbourhood Watch).

One of the highlights was a reconstruction of a crime scene, showing how forensics staff would investigate the site (see below).

All the children got excited when a police dog handler arrived with a German shepherd in the back of his car. There were tours of the inside of the building, showing custody areas, though we unfortunately had to leave before these started.

If you didn’t go, definitely look out for the event next year as it gave a fascinating and rare insight into police work. And as said above, the police staff had clearly gone to a lot of effort in organising a great day for visitors.