Merseyside Police has launched a campaign to recruit more than 200 new constables this year.

Chief Constable Sir Jon Murphy said: “I am delighted that the force is in a position to recruit new police officers this year.

“Merseyside Police is committed to maintaining a professional and effective police force and providing our communities with the best possible service for the public of Merseyside.

“We are looking for men and women who thrive on challenges and are willing to work hard to learn the skills necessary for this difficult but critical role.

“Being a police officer can be a tough job but it is also one of the most rewarding jobs you will ever have.

“The skills for being a good police officer include the ability to work as part of a team, solve problems and keep calm and confident under difficult circumstances.

“The role can be both physically and mentally demanding but it is an opportunity for individuals to make a difference and ensure that the people who live in the community they serve feel safe.”

Merseyside’s Police Commissioner Jane Kennedy said: “I am so pleased that Merseyside Police is now in a position to be able to open recruitment for new officers.

“The force lost more than 1,600 people during the Government’s six-year programme of austerity.

"Many services had to be stripped right back and some were on the brink of disappearing all together. It also put an unnecessary strain on the dedicated men and women who were left to serve the public.

“Thankfully, following some detailed financial planning we have now been able to balance the budget and that means for the first time in three years we are in the fortunate position to be able to encourage new people to apply to join the Merseyside Police family."

Anyone aged over 18 is eligible to apply. There is no upper age limit for applications but the compulsory retirement age for a police officer is 60.

All applicants must pass a police selection process and complete a training programme.

The recruitment lines are currently open but applications will not be considered after 2,000 have been received.

Anyone who is interested in applying for the position or has any questions about the role of a police constable can visit the Merseyside Police website - www.merseyside.police.uk