There has been a flurry of articles in the press concerning the Pagan Police Association. They have dragged out age-old misconceptions about pagans celebrating ‘lactating ewes’ and enjoying ‘unabashed sexuality and promiscuity’.

The truth couldn’t be further from this ridiculous Hammer film portrayal.

Pagan Police have been given the right to take time off to celebrate the eight pagan festivals throughout the year. This is because the Home Office now recognises the Pagan Police Association as a “diversity staff support association” – a status enjoyed by groups who represent female, black, gay, Muslim and disabled officers.

Pagan Police Association vice-chairman PC Andrew Pardy said: “The Police Service needs to embrace paganism in order to represent communities effectively.”

Paganism is a very real part of British culture. I am of the view that police should be admired rather than mocked for setting up the Police Pagan Association. They had the courage and conviction to bring this into being. I applaud them and the police authorities, which takes equalities and diversity legislation seriously.

l In the 2001 census, 42,262 people from England, Scotland and Wales declared themselves Pagans.

l Prof Ronald Hutton, the leading historian who has studied the growth of Paganism in the UK, says these numbers are only the tip of the iceberg. His 2001 research indicated the number of UK Pagans was then around 250,000.

l If Pagan police officers wish to quietly celebrate their religion on their religious holidays, and then work at the times other religions celebrate, for example, at Christmas or Easter, this has to be a great asset for the force.

Pagans celebrate the diversity of our multi-cultural community and respect others’ spiritual paths. Wouldn’t it be good if the press could catch up?

Chris Crowley, vice-president, Pagan Federation.