BOBBIES on the beat are sporting a cool new look this week. Their old-style shirts and ties have been replaced by zip-neck shirts made from a breathable, lightweight fabric to keep them cool. People should be aware that their local officers and PCSOs w

BOBBIES on the beat are sporting a "cool" new look this week. Their old-style shirts and ties have been replaced by zip-neck shirts made from a breathable, lightweight fabric to keep them cool.

"People should be aware that their local officers and PCSOs will have a slightly different look when they're out and about," said Chief Superintendent Steve Otway.

He added that officers who had trialled the shirts liked the fact that they were easy to wear and wash and didn't require ironing.

All uniformed frontline staff will wear the shirts which are cooler and more comfortable for officers when on patrol in their body armour. They also cost less than the traditional uniform which will still be worn by other officers.