OFFICERS on the beat will soon be sporting new headwear.

Hard caps are now being introduced following successful trials in Northwich and Chester.

The caps, which will be given to the majority of frontline officers, will replace the traditional flat caps with these ‘custodians’ now reserved for ceremonial purposes.

Chief Constable Simon Byrne said: “I want Cheshire officers to be equipped with the most appropriate uniform to carry out their jobs safely and effectively.

“Following internal and external consultations we’re introducing hard caps for most frontline police officers.

“This is a positive step for the force and great news for those working on the frontline.

A proposal for the new head gear was first put forward in 2014.

Northwich and Chester LPUs have been trialling the hard caps for more than six months.

Officers were asked to complete a survey on the new addition to the uniform.

Almost 65 per cent of officers said that the hard caps were practical, 70 per cent said they had worn the hard cap more than their previous hat and almost 90 per cent said they should become a standard part of the uniform.

The public was consulted via social media on the proposed changes.

Of 125 responses 72 per cent agreed that the new hard caps would be more practical for police officers and 61 per cent said they would not interfere with the force’s professional image.