Surrey Police will have its “highest number of officers in a generation” after receiving funds for 40 patrol recruits.

The estimated £2.5m from central government will add to the 222 extra officers who joined the force since 2021.

The new recruits will likely comprise of 25 full time police officers and 15 special constables.

The programme is part of the government’s plan to have at least one named, contactable officer in each neighbourhood, as well as dedicated teams in town centres.