WILTSHIRE Police are recruiting police constables for the first time in almost two years.

The recruitment drive begins tomorrow (Friday) at 10am with applications being accepted until 11pm on Sunday, October 16.

Successful candidates will be expected to record and investigate crime, undertake mobile and foot patrols, attend traffic collisions and work to improve the safety of the local community.

Wiltshire Police have not revealed the number they are recruiting but said it was not expanding, simply “covering for the natural loss of staff through normal employee turnover”.

Chief Constable Mike Veale said: “It is a pleasure to be able to say that Wiltshire Police will soon be accepting applications from prospective police constables.

“Taking on the role of a police officer is a great career choice that offers individuals the opportunity to really make a difference within local communities.

“We have a strong ethos of equality and inclusion not only in the service we aim to provide but also within the organisation. We are looking for talented people who can put people first and engage with the increasingly diverse communities we serve.”

Police Commissioner Angus Macpherson added: “Police officers are frequently called upon to deal with a range of people, sometimes the most vulnerable in our society, and these are often in times of personal crisis.

“For that reason I hope that the force is able to select candidates with emotional intelligence that can carry out their duties conscientiously.

“Wiltshire and Swindon is a diverse community with different life experiences, genders, ethnic backgrounds, religions, and sexual orientations. I want Wiltshire Police to reflect this diversity and be a part of keeping our communities safe.

“I particularly encourage people in minority communities to apply for roles in Wiltshire Police.”

Applicants must have a Level 3 qualification (A-level Grade A – E) or above, in any subject or equivalent, GCSEs A – C in English Language or Literature or equivalent, CSE English Grade 1, O Level English Grade C or above, and GCSE Maths A – E, or functional/numeracy skills Level 2 or equivalent.

The organisation will also accept some key criteria or relevant experience instead of the Level 3 qualification.

Applicants will have the opportunity to access a pre-assessment preview until 5pm today (September 29), available on the Wiltshire Police website.

For more information and to access the pre-assessment preview, visit wiltshire.police.uk