THE fight against crime in Worcestershire is being boosted by the recruitment of several new police officers.

Five probationary officers have joined the South Worcestershire area as part of a force-wide recruitment drive.

West Mercia Constabulary is currently recruiting officers in a bid to achieve a total of 300 recruits that are being sought for the force area.

The South Worcestershire area is expecting 30 of these officers to be working across Worcester, Pershore, Evesham, Droitwich and Malvern.

"This is the largest intake so far and we are currently gaining more officers every five weeks, with another eight coming on board at the beginning of October," said Chief Insp Rod Reynolds.

"This is good news for South Worcestershire. When trained, these officers will make a major contribution to the division."

He said the aim was to establish a dedicated interview team at Worcester Station when the officers were fully trained.

This means officers on the beat, who are currently spending their time interviewing and taking statements, will hand over to the team and be back on the streets with the minimum of paperwork.

West Mercia Constabulary is still recruiting and would like to hear from anyone interested in becoming a police officer.

Anyone interested should call the recruitment hotline on 01905 455051.