GREATER Manchester Police is welcoming 91 new apprentices as part of its latest batch of recruits.

The programme, which first launched in 2013, has so far created 335 opportunities for young people from a range of diverse communities across the city region.

The latest batch will see 86 joining various divisions and branches in administration support roles and the rest being posted to the call handling team in the force’s operational communication branch.

All 91 will spend the next 12 months working in the force.

Amanda Mosley, who co-ordinates GMP’s apprentice scheme, said: “Our apprentices perform a vital role in GMP, working alongside police officers and staff in a variety of teams, providing administrative support and excellent customer service to our partners and the public.

“They are given full training and support and learn skills to help them secure permanent positions.

“We want to ensure they are able to flourish and become a part of not only GMP’s success but also that of the region and the wider economy.”

Before the end of this financial year GMP is aiming to recruit another 149 apprentices.

Amanda added: “We have had a number of success stories from our apprentices over the years and many have gone into a range of roles across the force, including intelligence officers, local resolution officers, student officers and call handlers.

“We want our apprentices to know there is a future for them within the organisation outside of their apprenticeship which is why we encourage them to apply for posts advertised in the second half of their apprenticeship.”

The next GMP apprentice recruitment window is now open.

The force are inviting applications from a range of backgrounds.

If you are aged 16 or over and interested in applying for a GMP apprenticeship in a police support environment e-mail amanda.mosley@gmp.police.uk or visit www.gov.uk to complete an application.

The closing date is Sunday.