POLICE chiefs have welcomed 70 new officers as part of the force's biggest recruitment intake for a decade.

Sussex has taken on the extra officers after Police and Crime Commissioner Katy Bourne pressed for a 12 per cent rise in the council tax precept.

It takes the total to 140 new officers since April 1 this year, and a further 108 will be recruited by the end of March next year.

Chief Constable Giles York welcomed the latest recruits, and said the force has to recruit some 800 officers overall to replace retiring staff by 2022.

"This intake marks a transformational moment for Sussex Police," he said

There will be 34 new Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs) starting this month, taking the total to 215, and there are plans for more staff investigators and call handlers for the 999 and 101 telephone lines.

The new recruits could be on the streets before Christmas, but must complete 15 weeks of intensive training.

Chief Const York said: "They will bring new skills and different life experiences.

"I wish them every success with their initial training. I know they will find it demanding, effective, and fulfilling. Before they know it, they will be working in our communities where they are needed most."