Policing the pandemic has been demanding, and continues to be so, particularly with new restrictions coming into play immediately after Christmas.

It has proved to be thankless work, with officers criticised for being both too tough and not tough enough.

But nevertheless it has brought out the best in our members who, despite everything thrown at them, have remained dedicated to serving and protecting their communities.

I think this is why the Government’s pay freeze hit us all quite hard. On one hand, politicians told us they had our backs, but with the other they snatched away our hopes of even the smallest of pay rises.

The Federation has put across your views and is pressing for fair treatment for officers on both pay and pensions. We will continue this work in the New Year and will keep you updated.

So all that remains is for me to wish you a very happy Christmas and all the best for 2022. I fully appreciate many of you will have shifts over the festive season but all the same please make the most of your time off to spend time with your loved ones. Above all else, stay safe and remember we are always here for you.

Steve Treharne, South Wales Police Federation chair