The recruitment rate of police officers in Cumbria has slowed since the Government's recruitment drive ended, new figures show.

It comes as the total number of officers across England and Wales fell just months after the Government hailed a campaign to hire thousands of new recruits.

Home Office figures show there were 1,395 Cumbria Constabulary officers in September.

It was a slight increase of four officers from six months earlier in March, and up from September 2022, when 1,288 were recorded.

The Home Office said the new workforce figures show the total number of officers is still above its target and "maintains the additional 20,000 police officers recruited".

Labour’s Candidate for Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner, David Allen, said that people want to see local officers on the beat who provide a ‘visible deterrent’.

“As ever, the reality is far different from the Tory rhetoric and the facts tell a very different story, none of which is great for Cumbria,” said Mr Allen.

“Crime rates having risen locally by over 45 per cent since 2010 (compared to a 12 per cent increase in police officer numbers).

“In Cumbria, police civilian staff headcount was reduced by 25 per cent between 2010-2015, PCSO numbers reduced from 111 to 60 and 16 Police Stations were closed.

“As a retired police officer with 30 years of experience in law enforcement locally, nationally and internationally, and having spoken directly to people across Cumbria since March 2023, it is clear to me that the public want more than just empty talk and rhetoric after years of austerity and cuts.

“They want to see police on the street that they can talk to and approach. They want local, named bobbies working on the beat providing a visible deterrent.”

Concerns have been raised as because the rate of recruitment has slowed, when existing staff retire or leave the service numbers will fall and fluctuate.

In response, the Deputy Chief Constable said that Cumbria Police ‘remains committed’ to retaining officer numbers.

Deputy Chief Constable Darren Martland said: “The recruitment drive which has taken place in recent years has provided additional officers to ensure the safety of our local communities.

“Continued exceptional performance across the organisation has contributed to all crime reducing by 8.4 per cent, burglary reductions of nearly 17 per cent and violence against the person and sexual offences reducing by 10 per cent. 

"We are seeing arrest rates increase by 9.8 per cent and our positive outcomes up by 5 per cent.

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“The Constabulary remains committed to retaining the officer numbers achieved (and exceeded) through the National Uplift Programme.

“We are continuing to look for people who want to make a positive difference to people in our county and recruitment remains open for officers with intakes scheduled throughout 2024.

“This is a career like no other and if you are enthusiastic, dedicated and want to deliver an outstanding police service to keep Cumbria safe, then I would strongly encourage you to consider joining us.”