THE ten-week Herefordshire Citizens' Academy offers a unique insight into how the different departments within West Mercia Police work to protect people from harm, and improve the quality of life for the residents.

Herefordshire Citizens' Academy will be held at the Hereford and Ludlow College, Folly Lane, Hereford, HR1 1LT every Wednesday evening (6.30pm to 8.45pm) from February 22 to May 10.

The closing date for applications is this Sunday.

Members of the public, aged 16 years and older, who are interested in policing can apply to join the Citizens' Academy and find out more about how they can support the work of the police and their partner agencies.

The aim of the course is to open up communication between the community and the police, provide information about police procedures, reduce the fear of crime and increase personal safety.

Criteria will be applied to the selection process and successful applicants will be subject to security checks.

For more information about Herefordshire Citizens' Academy, and for an application form, visit www.westmercia.police.uk/academies