CHESHIRE Police has its highest number of police officers in more than a decade after welcoming a team of new recruits to the force.

On Saturday, September 21, a total of 42 new officers celebrated ‘passing out’ at the force HQ in Winsford, and will now be on the frontline across the county.

The intake means the total number of police officers in Cheshire has surpassed the 2,400 mark.

The ceremony came just two days after the latest Chief Constable Awards were handed out to deserving individuals who have gone above and beyond the line of duty, as well as officers collecting long service awards for 20 and 30 years of service.

(Image: Cheshire Police)

Recipients included an officer who saved the life of a vulnerable female after she became trapped in an unseen drainage channel, and another who prevented a teenage girl from falling from a building onto a railway line.

Cheshire Constabulary Chief Constable Mark Roberts said: “Making Cheshire even safer is my top priority, and by bringing in new recruits we continue to achieve that aim.

“We are now at a number that surpasses any previous levels inside the last decade, and that is testament to the hard work of a number of departments as well as the dedication of our applicants.

“Crime rates in Cheshire continue to drop, and I hope that with this increase in police officer numbers we will see that drop even further, whilst bringing offenders to justice.

(Image: Cheshire Police) “We want to make Cheshire a hostile a place for criminals – and those intent on committing crime should know that it will not be tolerated.

“I am proud of the work our officers do and the levels which they go to ensuring offenders are brought to justice and victims receive the support they need.”

If you are interested in joining Cheshire Constabulary visit our recruitment page to see all the vacancies available.