A POLICE force has welcomed 32 new cadets to its ranks following a recruitment campaign over the summer.

Durham Police’s latest recruits will form two units - one in the north of the county and one in the south- and are aged from 14 to 17 years.

The scheme is run by the Durham Agency Against Crime (DAAC) and funded by the office of the Police and Crime Commissioner, Ron Hogg.

There were more than 70 applications to join the scheme and those who were successful will soon start their weekly training sessions covering education about the police and the law.

Bryan Russell, manager of the DAAC, said; "Our volunteer cadets help support police events, do volunteering in the community and help us problem-solve local issues.

“In doing so, they are gaining valuable life experience and increase the positive perception of young people."

PCC Ron Hogg said, “It is a privilege taking on new cadets, encouraging young people to make a positive difference to communities. This celebrates the best that young people have to offer and gives them an opportunity to see how well police and communities can work together.”

There is no current recruitment taking place but more information can be found at daac.org.uk