Andy Thorn is the new Essex Police Federation Secretary

13 June 2025

Q: Tell us about your career path.

A: I started as an 18 year old in the Metropolitan Police, and I did that for a few years before moving to work with the West Midlands Police. Then I spent 10 years out of policing where I had my own business and also ran the security for Live Nation – I managed the security for Bestival, Creamfields, all the large festivals except Glastonbury.

Q: That sounds interesting! And then you returned to policing?

A: Yes, I came back to Essex and since then I’ve worked in response and neighbourhood policing as well as a police trainer.

Q: When did you decide to be a Federation Rep?

A: About three years ago. I joined up because I came back into the force and nobody was really talking about the Federation, so I wanted to make sure that it was visible to police officers. I want to ensure that we’re keeping our people safe and looking after their welfare. I think a happy and well-looked-after workforce is what’s best for the public as well.

Q: How does it feel to be Secretary now?

A: It’s an absolute privilege, it really is. When I was a young boy, my grandad would point at the local police officer and say: ‘This is the person who will look after you’, so I always thought they were my heroes. I got to work with my heroes, and now I get to look after my heroes. This role gives me the capacity to really help police officers.

Q: What are your goals as Secretary?

A: In the short term, making us more visible, relevant and approachable. I don’t want us to just sit in the office; we need to go out to police stations and work some shifts with people so they know exactly where to get our help.

Q: What’s your message for members?

A: Carry on doing a great job, and if you need anything to help you do what you do, let us know and we will do everything we can to support you in your role.