Cumbria’s police force has been given an award which recognises support for the armed forces.

After signing the Armed Forces Covenant last year, which promises fair treatment to those in service, veterans, and family, Cumbria Constabulary announced it received the Silver Award in the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme.

Deputy Chief Constable Darren Martland said: “The sacrifices that those in the Armed Forces, and their families, have made and continue to make is highly commendable.

“We will continue to do all we can to ensure the armed forces community is treated with fairness and respect in society and the workplace.”

Cumbria’s Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner, David Allen, said: “I know from my work in the NHS what it means to achieve this award and what a difference it can make to recruitment of veterans who bring a wealth of different experiences to the service.

“It is crucial that we create a workforce that is genuinely diverse in its representation and in its thinking.

“Veterans bring great value to their employers in all walks of civilian life, after military service.

“I truly believe they are a valuable addition to both our policing and fire and rescue teams, and I fully support our organisations working towards obtaining and improving on this award.”