New figures show that Thames Valley Police may be starting to reverse its problems of recruiting and retaining officers.

Thirty new recruits have joined the force this month. Although firm figures are not yet available, the number leaving is expected to be just more than 20.

This would mark a turn of fortunes for the force, which in the year to the end of March recruited 258 officers, but saw 257 leave for a variety of reasons, including the high cost of living.

Senior officers believe the new £2,000 a year cost-of-living allowance for all officers who joined the force after September 1, 1994, will help stop officers transferring to other forces in less expensive areas to live.

It is also hoped the ongoing intensive recruitment campaign will help lure high-calibre potential recruits to the force. Recent targets have included redundant steel workers in South Wales.

Chief constable Sir Charles Pollard said: "We are actively seeking more recruits for Thames Valley Police.

"Police work is mentally stimulating and can be physically demanding. Police officers can find themselves in variable and very challenging situations.

"We want to attract people who feel they could cope in these scenarios.

"Thames Valley Police offers a progressive, modern, hi-tech career choice and a host of opportunities.

"We hope the campaign will encourage members of the public to ask themselves whether they have the qualities needed to become one of the ordinary people who are doing an extraordinary job as a Thames Valley Police officer."