A TOTAL of 600 people in just two weeks applied to become police officers during a recruitment campaign.

Durham Police announced on October 9 that it planned to take on 50 new constables and would consider the first 600 completed applications.

The limit was reached on October 23, just a fortnight after applications opened, and the force is now working through an initial assessment of candidates.

Applicants who passed the first phase will be invited to a formal assessment centre to be held at Harperley Hall, near Crook in early January.

“It is great news so many people want to join a force which only last month was classed by an official report as the best performing in the country,” said Assistant Chief Officer, Gary Ridley.

“We look forward to seeing this new intake on the streets of County Durham and Darlington in due course.”

Durham Police and Crime Commissioner, Ron Hogg said: "The high number of applicants wanting to join our police service is a reflection of the commitment and standards of our officers and staff.

"I am confident the successful applicants will build on this ethos by continuing to support victims and keep our communities safe."