The leader of the country’s police chiefs has thanked officers at the end of “an unprecedented and challenging year”.

National Police Chiefs’ Council chair Martin Hewitt used his Christmas message to thank staff, charity workers and the NHS for their work in combatting the deadly COVID-19 virus.

In a sombre statement, Mr Hewitt said he wanted to reflect on “what’s been an unprecedented and challenging year for the Police Service.

“I want to say thank you to all of our police officers, police staff and volunteers who have worked tirelessly and selflessly throughout the pandemic in order to keep other people safe and protect the NHS whilst at the same time maintaining our commitment to our core role of protecting people, reducing crime and bringing offenders to justice.”

Since March, forces across the country have undergone a rapid transformation that has included making greater use of IT systems after years of delays.

“Our fantastic frontline officers have been supported throughout by an amazing network of police staff and volunteers many of whom have had to adapt quickly to a new way of working with swathes of police staff now working from home instead of in the office,” he said.

“These personal sacrifices and the commitment of our people have helped keep spirits high through one of the most turbulent years in recent history.”

The fast upgrading of IT had been critical for continuity and Mr Hewitt was clear who to praise.

“An extra special thanks goes out to the IQT and digital teams who have worked flat out to ensure our staff are fully equipped with the technology required to fulfil their roles out their roles remotely where necessary,” he said.

Supporting vulnerable people early in the first phase of lockdown had been a concern for gold groups and the NPCC chair made a point of highlighting the work of charities and volunteers who had helped.

Mr Hewitt said: “To all of the voluntary partners and Third Sector organisations that we work with on a regular basis, we’re especially grateful for your efforts. Your generous help to support the most vulnerable in society is crucial. Your commit and care has been needed more than ever before.”

But he saved special mention for the other Blue Light professionals in the health sector.

“The brunt of this pandemic has been borne by our emergency colleagues working  in the NHS and I want to say thank you for all your tireless efforts you have made to save lives.”

With a death toll that has run into thousands, Mr Hewitt acknowledged the burden had been carried by staff and families.

He said: “The genuinely unique asp of this paned is that it also affects us not only in our professional lives, but also an individual way as family members and friends. My thoughts are with those from the extended police family who have lost someone to this terrible virus.”