Jacqueline Kelly

Mum-of-two Jacqueline has been a Special for five years and is based in Huntingdon.

In her regular career she manages an emergency control room in the US Air Force and her daughter Charlie-Ann Brett is a police officer.

Pictured: Jacqueline and PC Charlie-Ann Brett

"I wanted to be an officer years ago but being a single parent, I couldn't with the shifts, and over the years things just got in the way. I did think about Specials but always thought there was an age cut-off of 40 years so put it to the back of my mind. Still, with a love of the job and the realisation that I could be a Special, my daughter encouraged me and told me I would regret not at least trying to do it. Well, 18 months later I succeeded as the oldest in class and felt very impressed with myself.

I have gone out with different teams, such as road policing on attachments, and absolutely loved it. The team was great and so accepting of Specials and really made the time enjoyable. I mainly go out with Response, as the team are just wonderful and have welcomed me in as one of them. The sergeants and inspectors are all so very supportive.

Charlie changed her mind about what she wanted to do growing up, as most youngsters do, and eventually made her own decision to join the police and she too initially started as a Special to get a better understanding of the role before making a final decision to join full time, which she did.

If you're wondering, can I? Should I? Am i too old? The answer is yes you should, and no, definitely not too old. There is a lot to be offered with your life skills. You certainly won't regret it!"