New special constable Bridget Postlethwaite is greeted by Sgt James Priest outside the Courthouse. (0757596)

ALDERNEY police has welcomed its first woman officer to the force.

Bridget Postlethwaite, 56, was sworn in as a special constable at the Court of Alderney last week.

Jurat Colin Partridge wished Mrs Postlethwaite luck in her appointment, shortly before Sgt James Priest greeted her outside the court house.

Mrs Postlethwaite, who has lived in the island for more than 30 years and is married to former States member John Postlethwaite, says she is looking forward to taking up the role.

She said: ‘I’m really excited about getting stuck into the job. I shall be doing administration work at the station in the first instance but my main role will be to get involved with cases involving females and youngsters.’

Mrs Postlethwaite, who works as a company director for Mitchell and Partners estate agents, will attend a training course in Guernsey and receive extensive advice from Alderney’s full-time officers.

Sgt James Priest said that when he first arrived in Alderney, he had highlighted the island’s need for a woman officer and made her recruitment one of his top priorities.

‘I am delighted Bridget has joined the force. To have someone with relevant skills and such a standing in the community is a massive boost to Team Alderney.

‘I hope islanders realise we are truly trying to represent everyone who lives here.’

Sgt Priest went on to reveal that three more local women had expressed an interest in becoming a police officer.

Islanders packed the Pré Studio earlier this month for a sneak preview of the Art Club’s latest pieces.

On show were more than 70 paintings, photographs, prints and drawings which together made up the spring exhibition.

Local artists Paddy Campbell and Alastair Riley exhibited several paintings, while photographer Bill Black pitched in with numerous shots of the island.

Club chairman Eve Tetley said: ‘I think all the works are of an extremely high standard. They wouldn’t look out of place at any gallery, anywhere.’

Mrs Tetley’s favourite pieces were both paintings – one which depicted Phillip II of Spain standing on Alderney and another which looks out to Burhou.

‘I love Michael Smallbone’s picture of Phillip II. It represents a very interesting piece of history, as Phillip considered invading Alderney centuries ago,’ she said.

‘I also like Alastair Riley’s picture, Passing By Burhou. He has taken everything away that doesn’t matter and simply concentrated on Burhou. It’s wonderful.’

For further information on the Art Club, call 822249.