Police Force Crack Down On Officers Growing Hipster Beards

(Twitter)

Anyone who loves a man in uniform and a massive hipster beard will be disappointed to learn that UK police may soon be BANNED from growing them.

Gloucestershire Constabulary has ordered its officers to either cover up their stylish bears or trim them right down so that they look more “professional”.

Worse still (or maybe not, depending on your outlook), visible tattoos and fake tans have also been banned.

The force have defended their new policy, stating that it was important police looked “smart” while on duty.

They told Mashable: “Gloucestershire Constabulary places importance upon its officers and staff presenting a professional appearance and being smart.

“We consider it plays a significant part in maintaining and enhancing public confidence in policing.

(Rex)

“To reflect this, the Constabulary has recently introduced a new uniform policy which includes advice on facial hair, covering of tattoos etc.

“The policy is intended to provide guidance to managers and staff, it does not replace the need for discussion with the individuals concerned.

“This ensures that a common sense approach is adopted.”

Police Federation chairman Steve White added that police officers “have got to look professional and smart when they are on duty”.

White did note that a beard might be a disadvantage for a police officer, used as a "weapon” and offering something for a suspect to grab onto.

Naturally some police officers are against the move, with some arguing that you could be clean-shaven and still scruffy and overweight.

The news will be worrying for policeman Peter Swinger, whose hipster beard made him world famous after he was pictured policing an EDL rally in May.

The father-of-three is a member of the Metropolitan Police, who confirmed at the time that officers were allowed on the beat with a full beard.

Probably best he doesn’t move to the west country, then…