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A police officer dubbed 'the woke inspector' after asking eco-zealots blockading the M25 to just 'ask if they need anything' is a 20-year veteran who plays rugby and has the full support of her force chiefs.
Vicki Richards, 44, who is based in Hertfordshire sparked fury when she was caught on film talking to protesters who set up roadblocks during rush hour last week 'If you are in any discomfort or need anything, just let me know and we'll try and sort you out in a nice way.'
The Insulate Britain activists were back causing chaos this morning at Junction 18 at Rickmansworth near Watford.
Inspector Richards, 44, who is a married mother of one, was filmed last Monday and there were further demonstrations on the M25 last Wednesday and Friday.
The police have been criticised for their gentle touch approach by the public including a son whose elderly stroke victim mother was trapped for six hours in the chaos.
Vicki Richards, 44, who is a force veteran and rugby player, was the officer who spoke out
In the clip Inspector Richards is heard saying: ''Right, I have spoken to officers about what offences are available to them.
Individual officers will come and speak to you and they will make their own decision as to whether you are arrested for failing to comply with Section 14.
'Each individual officer will come and speak to you and if you've got any questions at all, just ask and if any of you are in any discomfort or need anything, just let me know and we'll try and sort you out in a nice way.
'Couldn't have phrased that any worse could I? But no, if you need any assistance at all, just let me know okay? Right, we'll be as we are.'
Her comments infuriated Tory MP Craig Mackinlay who accused the police of 'standing around for hours at a time before doing anything' adding they should, 'use the powers available to them to clear this protest immediately'.
Inspector Richards, who is also a girl guide leader, refused to comment.
The Insulate Britain activists have targeted the circular stretch as part of demonstrations
They were back in action today, this time at a s sliproad near Hatfield, frustrating police
