Black leather belt (approx. 28mm wide) with chrome plated buckle and of small length.
Use
For a police officer to attach to a skirt or trousers
Context
In the past belts like this were used by male and female officers to attach to their uniform trousers or skirts. They were used to attach a handcuff pouch and clips to attach a personal radio to the belt. In the 1990s officers began to be issued with other items to be carried on belts, including PR24 baton loops, torch loops, first aid pouches and document pouches.
By the time telescopic batons were issued in 2000, it was realised that more substantial belts were required and Sussex Police began to issue nylon utility belts, to carry equipment. Leather belts have continued to be issued for trousers and skirts and in more recent years uniform cargo trousers.
This particular belt is associated with a uniform (items 247.1 and 247.2) known to have been used by Deputy Chief constable Maria Wallis and dates from 2001. It is shown here as it would have been worn inside the belt lops of a uniform skirt.
