they performed a Passing Out Parade in front of senior officers, Government Ministers and the Governor Lord Waddington.

The 13 have all completed the Police Basic Training Course, which began last June. At the ceremony, in front of Police Commissioner Colin Coxall and Home Affairs Minister Quinton Edness, the recruits were awarded a series of prizes in recognition of their achievements.

However the most coveted award -- the Baton of Honour for the best overall recruit -- was given to W.P.c. Robin Pitcher. About ten more recruits are due to pass through the programme when it will be changed slightly to include more mature recruits.

In the past the Police have noticed that young recruits have sometimes left the Service after completing their training.