HUNDREDS more police officers will be taking to the region’s streets following the launch of a national recruitment campaign.

The Home Office announced on Thursday it wants to recruit 20,000 police officers nationally and each of the North-East forces are set to see their numbers bolstered.

The Home Office announced on Thursday it wants to recruit 20,000 police officers nationally and each of the North-East forces should benefit.

North Yorkshire say up to 200 new officers could join in the county, Cleveland Police are looking to take on more than 100 and Durham Constabulary estimates it will recruit 200 additional officers over the next three years, subject to funding.

A Durham Police spokesman said: "This is clearly welcome and these officers will be used to continue to tackle criminals and protect neighbourhoods and businesses.”

Deputy Chief Constable Phil Cain of North Yorkshire Police said: “The role of the police officer is one of the most important parts of the policing family.

“No other job gives you the sense of satisfaction like this job does – you will be the frontline of the criminal justice system, helping people in their time of need and assisting when they are at their most vulnerable.

“It is a challenging but extremely rewarding role which offers long-term career opportunities.

“There is no denying that 200 additional officers will make a significant difference to policing in North Yorkshire but for us to achieve that figure we need people to apply.”

Cleveland Police has a recruitment plan that is focused on ensuring that the force represents the communities that it serves and applications are welcome from underrepresented groups.

Assistant Chief Constable Steve Graham said the recruitment campaign was “a fantastic opportunity” for anyone who may be interested in a career with the force.

He added: “We are already recruiting in excess of 100 police officers this financial year to support our vision to deliver outstanding policing for our communities by relentlessly focusing on prevention, solving problems and tackling criminals.

“The Government’s announcement of additional officers on top of this is great news and very welcome.

“As a force we know policing success isn’t just about numbers, it’s much more complicated, and we are working hard to ensure that our officers are supported by appropriate working practices, planning and leadership.”

Application details are available on each of the forces’ websites.