Devon and Cornwall Police welcome 120 new recruits in frontline boost
Report by Duncan Williams for Pulman's Weekly News
A total of 120 new recruits have begun training with Devon and Cornwall Police as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen frontline policing across the region.
The latest intake includes 90 student officers, 16 Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs), and 14 transferees from other forces. Among them are 32 graduates from the national Police Now programme, reflecting a continued focus on attracting a diverse range of candidates into policing.
Chief Constable James Vaughan QPM said he was “delighted” to welcome the new cohort, describing policing as a “challenging, rewarding and deeply meaningful career”.
“Each new officer represents our continued commitment to strengthening the frontline and keeping communities across Devon, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly safe,” he said.
Of the recruits, 58 student officers have now formally attested, taking the oath required to assume police powers. They will begin their initial training before moving on to a 12-week placement alongside experienced officers.
The intake also includes a transferee police dog and handler, adding further operational capacity to the force.
One new recruit, who previously worked as a professional musician, spoke of his motivation for joining. After two decades touring internationally, he said becoming a father prompted him to seek a more stable and purposeful career.
“The key was finding something my daughter will be proud of,” he said. “My uncle was a police officer and hearing about his career made me realise that’s the sort of person I want to be.”
The recruitment drive follows a commitment made in September 2025 to increase visible policing by reducing senior ranks and reallocating resources to frontline roles.
Police and Crime Commissioner Alison Hernandez welcomed the latest intake, praising efforts to improve staff retention and support for frontline officers.
She said: “It is encouraging to see recruitment continuing at pace despite financial pressures. Strong leadership is ensuring officers feel supported, and I thank all those working behind the scenes to make this possible.”
The latest boost comes as the force continues to balance ambitious recruitment targets with wider budget challenges, while maintaining one of the largest officer numbers in its history.
( Photo courtesy of Devon & Cornwall Police 📸 )