TEENAGERS with the dream of becoming a police officer can now fulfil their ambition early, with the reintroduction of the police officer cadets scheme.o

The scheme, which until it was scrapped in 1991allowed wannabe police officers to join the force at 16, has been brought back now for 17 to 18-year-olds when they finish their A-levels in a bid to solve a recruiting crisis.

Harlow is one of only four divisions in Essex, along with Thurrock, Basildon and Southend, involved with the scheme. They are the areas experiencing the biggest recruitment problems.

About 18 cadets have been taken on by Essex Police, with two Lee Hounslow, from Sawbridgeworth, and Paul Panayi, from Epping, who will shortly be joined by a female cadet currently working in the Harlow Division, which includes Epping and Ongar.

Lee, 17, said: "It's an early way of getting into the police. It's helped me for when I go into the service, and it's better than going to college!"

The cadets attend a two-week induction at the force training school in Chelmsford, and then a series of attachments with various departments, including CID, domestic violence and firearms, and even a spell with the Epping Forest keepers when they learn about the forest's bylaws.

When they are 18-and-a-half they get regular training and sign up as a probationer at the age of 19.The cadets also have to pass an NVQ in customer service.

They work a 37-hour week and are not allowed out on operational patrol, to comply with Health and Safety legislation, until they are 18.

Harlow Divisional Sergeant and cadet co-ordinating officer Bob Adams welcomed the return of cadets saying it gave them an early insight into the broad spectrum of policing, and saw cadets see all areas of the force before they start as a probationer.

He said: "It's a good thing. Realistically the police service needs officers from the young to the old, and it needs replacements. It also provides a whole teaching package."

And he said there was evidence in the force nationally today that the system has produced officers who have gone on to senior positions. Michael Todd, a one-time Essex Police cadet, is now the Chief Constable of Greater Manchester.

Essex Police is looking at having another intake of cadets inext year with applications to be advertised in mid summer.

Anyone interested in a career in Essex Police should ring recruitment manager Sue Adkins at the headquarters training school on 01245 491491 (extension 58700), or visit the Essex Police website at www.essex.police.uk.

January 27, 2003 16:00