A VOLUNTEER is set to bring her passions for policing and sports together this summer.
Special Constable Karen Newman is a keen swimmer, cyclist and runner when she’s not working or dedicating time to protecting the public.
So to be part of the team dedicated to keeping people safe at the 2022 Commonwealth Games – and amongst some of the world’s best athletes – is her ideal summer.
The 48-year-old has been an operational volunteer officer since August after acting upon her long-standing policing ambitions.
Karen said: “I’ve got such an exciting year ahead and a big part of that is being a Special. It will be brilliant to be part of policing at the Commonwealth Games and ensure people can enjoy the historic occasion safely.
“It will be fascinating to see ‘behind the scenes’ of such a prestigious event. I can’t wait to be involved; it’s an amazing opportunity.”
Karen was initially interested in joining the force following her A-levels, but after completing a fashion degree she went into the clothing industry.
She’s now a product development expert for a supermarket clothing brand which sees her travel the world to meet designers, buyers and manufacturers.
Karen still manages to cover an average of 40 hours a month as a Special – mainly in Coventry – alongside her work, sporty hobbies and being a mum to two teenagers.
She has also walked a section of the Great Wall of China to raise money for Dementia UK and later this year, once she’s clocked off from the Commonwealth Games, she’s off to Peru to walk the Inca Trail and explore the Amazon Rainforest.
She added: “Being a Special is one of the best things I’ve ever done, and I’d encourage anyone to have a have a go, you’ll love the the challenge of learning new skills and meeting like-minded people.
“I have developed as a person, grown in confidence and have extended my knowledge of the law.”
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