Force opens officer roles to auto‑only drivers

People who have an automatic driving licence can now apply to become a Thames Valley Police officer.

Previously, the force required applicants to hold a full manual licence by the time of their formal offer.

The force said it had made the change because most of its frontline vehicles were already automatic and the car industry was steadily moving away from manual gearboxes.

Applicants with either an automatic‑only or manual UK driving licence for police constable and detective constable roles, as well as transfers from other forces, can now apply.

Supt Cat McKay, head of workforce planning, said: "This is a sensible and proactive change to our entry criteria.

"By adjusting our entry criteria, we're extending opportunities to more talented people who want to serve our communities across the Thames Valley."