Canterbury Cathedral Close Constables


The Canterbury Cathedral Close Constables are a cathedral constabulary employed by Canterbury Cathedral to maintain order and security in and around the cathedral. They have the same police powers as regular police in the United Kingdom, including the power of arrest, within the cathedral and its precincts.
The current head constable is Chief Inspector Fred McCormack.

History

To professionalise security the Dean and Chapter, the body that administers Canterbury Cathedral, formed its own constabulary in 2016.

Uniform and equipment

Everyday uniform for the Constables wear black cargo trousers, a black duty shirt/white shirt and tie displaying their Constabulary number and peaked cap with a blue and white Sillitoe tartan band.
For ceremonial duties, a formal dark tunic, dark trousers and white shirt and tie are worn, along with the peaked cap. State medals are worn on the left breast and Cathedral Constable Association medals are worn on the right.
Since 2016 the close constables have been permitted to use personal protection equipment, including a protective vest, handcuffs and a PR-24 tactical baton.

Rank Structure

The close constables are led by a Superintendent/Head Constable, who is supported by an operational Inspector and four Sergeants, each of whom leads a shift supported by four Corporals.
RankChief inspector
Formerly Head Constable
Inspector
Formerly Deputy Head Constable
Sergeant
Formerly Senior Constable
CorporalClose ConstableWarden
Insignia