The Bermuda Police Service hopes by opening its doors this week the public — especially the youth — will get a positive impression of officers.

Celebrating 129 years of policing in Bermuda, various events will mark the second year since the community outreach has been resurrected.

Police spokesperson Dwayne Caines said the effort will hopefully create positive first impressions with the youth. "This is the second year we are resurrecting Police Week. What we recognise is we need to foster a healthy relationship with the community," he said.

"We have a heavy focus on Bermuda youth, specifically Bermuda middle school and elementary school years. Most of the time people deal with the Bermuda Police it's a negative experience. What we want to do is change that view.

"So they see Bermuda Police officers as here to make the community safe rather than being punitive and making their lives more difficult. We want to start good memories and making the first impressions the good ones."

There has already been a service at the New Testament Church of God, on Dundonald and Union streets, with the Police Chaplain and the Commissioner of Police, George Jackson. Some special units have presented displays on the Police Field in Prospect, which Mr. Caines said last year brought out about hundreds of students from various public and private schools.

Tomorrow will introduce eight winners of the "Commissioner for a Day" essay contest to senior officers they will have a chance to shadow that day.

On that night there will also be a Beating the Retreat with the Bermuda Regiment Band and Corps on Front Street at 8.30 p.m. with the Commissioner of Police and other dignitaries in attendance. Then on Friday there will be an open house between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. when people can go to the Police stations, as well as the Marine section and on the police boat The Guardian.

Mr. Caines added: "It was well attended last year and we are hoping for the same numbers this year. "It will allow them to make contact with the people in their section. You go to the station and know the people in their neighbourhood and the officers can see who's in their neighbourhood.

"I think the community has been crying out for a better connection. The easiest way to connect is to start young and build from a base of understanding and friendship."

Anyone who would like more information can email Mr. Caines at: dcaines@bps.bm or pmr@bps.bm.