HAVE you ever wondered what the police do at night to keep the community safe, both from itself and outside threats? 'Post' reporter Natalie Venning joined Neighbourhood Beat Manager Johnny Haynes and Special Constable Lorna White on a Saturday night insight patrol on February 9.

The first thing I realised about the police, was how very human they were. Officers embody a form of authority in society, and it can put them on a strained pedestal that people don't know how to approach.

When you think about police officers, it can often be in response to negative events. Calling the police is something we do in an emergency, but they also exist as a positive reinforcement to society.

Don't misunderstand, there is plenty of action, high speeds, drugs and rock and roll in the duty of the police, all of which I would see as the night progressed. However, the patrol made me see a side to the 'boys in blue' that many disregard.

The side that is undeniably human, where members from our community are wanting to "give something back" and are genuinely trying to help.

For the full report, and a round up of the area news and sport, see this week's edition of the 'Post'.