ESSEX police officers have been praised for the successful security operation at Stansted Airport surrounding the arrival of US President Barack Obama. Assistant Chief Constable (ACC) Derek Benson said that the operation – known as Operation Glencoe – had

ESSEX police officers have been praised for the successful security operation at Stansted Airport surrounding the arrival of US President Barack Obama.

Assistant Chief Constable (ACC) Derek Benson said that the operation - known as Operation Glencoe - had placed an "unprecedented demand" on police resources.

The arrival of Mr Obama on March 31 resulted in Essex Police calling on assistance from forces around the country to mount the 24/seven operation.

"I would like to express my personal appreciation to all those employees involved in the operation, which was brought together with very little notice," said ACC Benson.

Supt Jed Stopher of Mobile Support Division, responsible for co-ordinating numerous specialist plans, said there were many challenges presented by dealing with a large number of outside agencies.

"This operation was the biggest public order operation requiring mutual aid that I can recall in my 25 years' service and certainly one of the most challenging to command," he said.

"I must thank everyone involved in the operation, from all disciplines, for making the operation the success it was."

Almost as soon as the US President departed Stansted on April 3, Essex Police faced another large policing operation at TV personality Jade Goody's funeral.

Epping Forest district commander Chief Insp Alan Ray said: "The funeral was a huge draw on resources so soon after Operation Glencoe. It is estimated that more than 1000 people lined the streets of Loughton and a further 3000 people attended the area of the church.

"All officers conducted themselves in an exemplary manner and their every move was relayed live to a global audience via Sky News. I would like to thank all involved in the planning and execution of this testing operation.