Insp Jon Smith said: "We have had a number of applications from people especially in the rural areas.

"We are also looking for people to join the extended police family in Oxford City."

PCSOs can issue fixed penalty notices, seize alcohol and tobacco from young people and demand the names and addresses of people being disorderly.

Pat Dawe, cabinet member for community safety, at South Oxfordshire District Council, said: "PSCOs are essential to our efforts to reduce crime and fear of crime in the district.

"These will be increasingly high profile roles that will provide an exciting challenge to the staff lucky enough to be appointed."

PCSOs are paid around �19,000 a year in allowances.