CSOs have been trained to calm difficult situations at the hospital

The Princess Royal Hospital in Telford claims it is the first in the country to take on CSOs.

It says that having civilian officers will raise the profile of security at the hospital which can be an easy target for crime.

The CSOs, based in the accident and emergency department, will replace security staff.

The four officers, who are being recruited and trained by West Mercia Police, will deal with crime and also give advice to staff and patients, including victims of assaults.

They will police the hospital both inside and outside and have been trained to calm difficult situations.

The CSOs are due to start work in the next few days.