A TRENDSETTING training scheme for new police officers has won praise - and could now be extended after its success.

The Morecambe police training project has just sent out its second group of graduates and local MP Geraldine Smith says she is delighted.

The project sees recruits train on the job in a police station rather than in a classroom and Ms Smith says: "I helped launch the project in November 2003 and I am delighted to see that it has gone from strength to strength.

"It is wonderful to see that Morecambe is acting as a pioneer in the field of police training with these new officers learning their trade on our streets."

As well as honouring 16 police officer graduates, a ceremony saw special awards go to members of the community who helped in the training.

Project Manager Simon Twist says: "We believe that this form of training is the future but we could not have done it without the help of the community.

"They have helped tremendously with the practical exercises by acting out real life situations for the officers."