MORE than 1,000 police officers have failed fitness tests in the past year, official figures have revealed.
And the fat roll of shame was described as a wake-up call to ministers to act over their ability to protect the public.
Figures released by 25 forces after a Freedom of Information request by the Lib Dems show the Metropolitan Police had the highest number of officers, 337, who did not hit the required level across England and Wales.
Compulsory testing was brought in ten years ago, with officers required to pass punishing 3½-minute bleep tests covering 535 metres in which the running speed gradually gets faster.
Specialists such as dog handlers must reach a higher standard.
Officers get three attempts to pass the fitness tests, with a six-week interval in between to allow more time to get up to speed.
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Lib Dem MP and former officer Wendy Chamberlain said: “Police officers on the front line do an incredible job catching criminals and keeping the public safe.
“But people will be understandably worried that so many police officers are failing basic fitness tests.
“This should act as a wake-up call to Conservative ministers who are failing the public on crime.
“It’s vital that police officers are fit and able to protect the public in the face of danger.
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“We need to see more tailored support given to those failing these tests, including providing specialised training where needed.”
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Matt Rayson
