The Police Constable is the key rank in the police service - and nearly three-quarters of all the police officers in England and Wales are police constables.

PCs have a wide range of duties; ask any PC about his or her job and their first reaction will usually be: "every day presents a new challenge."

Duties include patrolling the streets on foot or in cars, answering calls for assistance, giving advice to the public, dealing with disturbances...and much more.

It is the police constable who is invariably first on the scene - whether it be a road traffic accident, burglary or violent crime.

They have to make the first - and often vital - decisions and need to be equipped with a whole range of skills to deal appropriately with all sections of society.

Criteria for Police recruitment

It takes a special blend of skills and qualities to become an effective police officer because it is a career unlike any other. It is one that combines variety and physical exertion with extensive public contact and a high level of personal responsibility.

There are many contenders for entry into the Suffolk Constabulary but not all who apply are successful in satisfying all our selection criteria. The following will help you decide whether you meet the necessary requirements:

• You must be at least 18 years of age.
• You need to be a British Citizen or a member of the EC/EEA. Commonwealth citizens and foreign nationals who are resident in the UK free of restrictions can also apply.
• Eyesight: Can you see the 4th line from the bottom of an optician's chart, with either your right or your left eye, and the 2nd line from the bottom of the chart with both eyes together (wearing spectacles or contact lenses if necessary)?

If you wear spectacles or contact lenses, can you see the 2nd line from the top of an opticians chart without them (with both eyes together)?

You will understand the need to create good first impressions in keeping with the dignity and role of a Police Constable.

• Tatoos are not acceptable if they could cause offence and/or invite provocation from members of the public or colleagues, or if they are garish or numerous.

Does that sound like your kind of job?

Full details on eligibility, and all the information you need to know about becoming a police officer is on the national police recruiting website, Could you? Police .

You can also apply online: www.policecouldyou.co.uk

We are currently accepting applications from transferees at Supt and Chief Supt Level.