Sixteen new police officers have joined frontline policing teams across Hertfordshire after graduating last week.

The new recruits were welcomed to the force during a ceremony on Thursday (5 March), where Hertfordshire Chief Constable Andy Prophet congratulated the latest cohort joining "Team Herts".

The officers will now begin working in frontline roles across the county, supporting efforts to prevent crime, catch offenders and protect local communities.

Speaking at the ceremony, Mr Prophet praised the new recruits and highlighted the importance of policing in serving the public.

"Policing is a job that takes special individuals," he said. "It's not something that everyone can do and while often challenging, it is a career that is hugely rewarding.

"These 16 new officers are now joining frontline teams who are relentless in their pursuit of criminals to ensure we bring offenders to justice and protect the public."

The latest group of graduates come from a wide range of previous careers and experiences, including a primary school teacher, painter and decorator, restaurant manager, student and waiter.

Hertfordshire Constabulary says it continues to recruit new officers and is encouraging people from all backgrounds to consider a career in policing.

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Two main routes are currently open for applications. The Police Constable Entry Programme (PCEP) offers 20 weeks of initial training before officers join a frontline team, while the Police Constable Degree Apprenticeship (PCDA) allows recruits to earn a salary while studying for a degree alongside on-the-job training.

Applications for the latest intake close on Tuesday 31 March.

The force is also inviting existing officers from other parts of the UK to transfer to Hertfordshire through its transferee scheme, which is open to police constables, detectives and sergeants.

More information about careers and current opportunities with Hertfordshire Constabulary can be found on the force's website.