A 5’3 tall trained firearms officer has spoken of how she was told she ‘wouldn’t be able to manage’ in the role because of her size or strength. PC Annabel Courtnell, 30, is an armed response vehicle officer (ARVO) working in Stansted Airport, and receives intensive training every 10 weeks.
PC Courtnell said she has faced the physical demands of the role as a woman in a traditionally male-dominated field. She is now working with weapons training teams to ensure future female officers have properly fitting gear and are supported in their work.
PC Courtnell, known as Annie, said: “There were times when I was told that I wouldn’t be able to manage because of my size or strength.
“Even getting the right equipment was a struggle. I had to wear kit that was three sizes too big because it was the smallest available, but I refused to let that stop me.”
It was a childhood moment for Annie which inspired her to go into policing after seeing a female officer at work. She said: “I remember visiting Stansted Airport when I was about 10 years old and saw a female firearms officer patrolling.
“She was small in stature, but she looked so confident. I thought she was the coolest person I had ever seen. It was then that I decided that I wanted to be her one day.
“Women in policing, especially in specialist roles like firearms, have come a long way. It’s important to highlight those achievements to inspire future generations.
“It’s not about discrediting the work of men, but about recognising the extra barriers women have had to overcome. Women are now regularly consulted about how to improve conditions, but we need more female voices in key decision-making meetings. I want to see more women encouraged to take on these roles, knowing they will be supported every step of the way.”
For Annie, the most rewarding aspect of her job is knowing that she makes a difference. Speaking about a case where she helped a victim of domestic abuse find safety, Annie said: “She had no idea of the extent of the crime she was a victim of.
“After hours of talking, I helped secure a safe place for her and her child. Later, she came back to thank me and told me that our interaction had inspired her to become a police officer. That was a truly humbling moment.
“We meet people at some of the most difficult moments in their lives. Whether it’s rescuing someone from a dangerous situation, preventing harm, or even just reassuring a nervous child in the airport, those moments stay with you.”
PC Courtnell wants to continue developing her firearms expertise and eventually move to the Force Support Unit as a county-wide resource. One day, she wants to be promoted to becoming part of the Chief Officer Group.
To women considering a career in policing, Annie said: “Go for it. Don’t let anyone tell you that you’re not strong enough, not capable enough, or not suited for the job. If you have the determination, you can achieve anything.”
