A POLICE force is encouraging more women officers to take up public order training.

Durham Police's public order training unit is to hold a training day in County Durham next month.

PC Sarah White, an instructor with the unit, said: "While the number of women taking up police support unit (PSU) training has remained steady, it doesn't reflect the number of women coming into the force.

"I think some people consider PSU training to be male-orientated, but there is no discrimination between men and women.

"Women aren't treated any differently from the men, and it provides a good opportunity for officers who enjoy working as part of a team."

A public order awareness day is being held for women officers on March 15, at Aycliffe hospital.

Those who attend will get the chance to try out some of the tactics, and discuss any concerns about fitness testing or any other aspect of public order training.

PC White said: "Officers who receive PSU training remain with their division and continue with other duties, but are called in when circumstances necessitate it.