UP to 100 new Police Constables will be recruited in Dorset to tackle a crisis in officer numbers.

Scores of officers have left the force in recent months, meaning a recruitment drive is needed to maintain numbers at their current level.

Low morale due to changes in pay and conditions, lower starting wages and more job opportunities outside the police force are to blame for the current shortage, said Police and Crime Commissioner Martyn Underhill.

Now he hopes to attract between 80 and 100 high quality new recruits to join the force from March 2017.

“This problem exists in Dorset and also across the country” Mr Underhill told the Daily Echo. “We are losing more officers now than we have ever done.”

He said that in the past officers left half-way through or at the end of their careers but that now many leave after just a few years in the force.

“When we recruit 80-100 officers it will keep us stable” he added. “I would still like a further 50 officers on top of that as I said in my election campaign.”

Anyone aged 18 or over and educated to A level or equivalent standard, can apply for the roles, which have a starting salary of £19,383. Candidates have to take part in a series of tests, interviews, police checks and medical assessments and the closing date is Friday July 15.

Chief Constable, Debbie Simpson said: “We are looking for committed, proactive and conscientious individuals to join our police team. The job is extremely rewarding and I would urge anyone looking for an opportunity to make a difference to individuals and communities in Dorset to visit our website.

“We are expecting a high volume of applicants, considering the desirability of the position and the opportunity to work in one of the country’s most picturesque and varied counties.

“I ask prospective applicants to read all the information we have provided before trying to contact the Force. This will mean that our teams have the best possible capability to process everyone’s applications as efficiently as possible.”

Mr Underhill added: “Now is a great time to join the policing family. Recruits will learn new skills and make a difference to our communities by helping them to stay safe and feel safe.”

Details from dorset.police.uk/recruitment/police-officers