Northern Constabulary taking on 10 cadets

Cadets will have the opportunity to become a Pc

A Scottish police force wants to recruit 10 school-leavers to its new cadet scheme.

Northern Constabulary said 16 to 17-and-a-half years olds could apply for the six month long training programme.

The scheme comes as the force faces a fall in its officer numbers from a high of 800 because of cuts to its budget.

Northern, which covers the Highlands and Northern and Western isles, also has plans to close 16 stations across its force area.

Chief Constable Ian Latimer said he was delighted the force was able to offer the cadet scheme to young people.

He said: "There are some real financial pressures on us but it is important to invest in the long term future of policing in the Highlands and Islands."

A number of experienced officers began their careers as cadets, including the current Deputy Chief Constable Garry Sutherland.

Strong position

He said: "I began my own career as a cadet and I can recommend the experience to young people who have an interest in a future career with the police and want to learn more.

"The cadet scheme gives recruits the best possible start to their careers and places them in a strong position to successfully take part in the selection process to eventually become a police constable."

Cadets will undertake a number of placements within the force operations centre and with specialist police support units, such as crime management and community safety.