DOZENS of new police officers can take to the streets of North Yorkshire, after completing an intensive training course.

The 27 new officers completed the 17-week course – which includes law, personal safety, search techniques and first aid – to qualify for their Certificate of Knowledge in Policing, and took part in a passing out ceremony at police headquarters last week.

Another 28 recruits started their initial training course yesterday.

Chief Constable Dave Jones hosted Friday’s ceremony, and said: “It gives me great pleasure to welcome these exemplary new officers to the service with their infectious pride, enthusiasm and desire to serve the public. “I hope the passing out of these 27 officers and the recruitment of another 28 trainees, sends a reassuring message to our communities that myself and the Police and Crime Commissioner are committed to protecting frontline policing.”

The 27 new recruits will now start work on the beat in York, Scarborough, Selby, Northallerton, Richmond, Harrogate, Skipton and Thirsk, under the guidance of their tutor constables for 15 weeks.

They will then be able to patrol alone, but will be monitored and assessed for a probationary period of two years.