POLICE officers accused of being 'impartial' for supporting Bracknell's Pride event have hit back at negative comments - prompting a flurry of online praise for their 'solidarity' with the LGBTQIA+ community.


Thames Valley Police neighbourhood team in Bracknell posted to Facebook photographs of a number of officers who attended Bracknell Pride on Saturday, July 20.


Hundreds of people came together for the event staged by Bracknell Forest Council, Bracknell Town Council, The Lexicon, and community partners to enjoy a parade, music, entertainment, and local support and community groups.


The event is held each year to celebrate diversity in the community and show support and solidarity for the LGBTQIA+ community.


Following the event, Thames Valley Police Bracknell and Wokingham posted online about the success of the event and their involvement.


Adding: "It was great to speak with attendees, who were grateful for our attendance, allowing them to feel safe and enjoy a great day!”


However, the online post was soon met with a comment questioning the police team's support saying 'I thought police were meant to be impartial'.


The commenter added: "TVP Bracknell and Wokingham if you are doing it in your own time then fair enough..."


This resulted in outrage from other residents who came forward to express their disdain for such a comment. 


One person wrote “Why on earth would you say that? Police officers do a really tough job, in fact it’s a vocation not a job. They run towards chaos and danger while everyone else runs in the opposite direction.


“It’s really nice to engage with the public on a positive aspect and that’s what they are paid to do as well as deal with the more unpleasant side. I think it’s sad that you don’t see that.”


Another added: "Why don’t you sign up and become a Special Constable, and you can experience what it means to support all aspects of the community. You’ll see both the positive and negative aspects and maybe you won’t be so quick to sit in judgement of something you clearly don’t know much about."


The Bracknell and Wokingham police team were also happy to explain why they support such events in the community.

A response said: "It’s true that the police are supposed to be impartial in enforcing the law and protecting members of the public.


“However, supporting community events like Pride is about ensuring the safety and inclusion of all community members. The police often participate in these events to show solidarity, promote trust, and ensure a safe environment for everyone.


“This involvement doesn’t compromise our impartiality in our day to day role enforcing law, it highlights our commitment to serving and protecting all members of the communities, regardless of their background or identity.”