MORE than 20 Thames Valley Police officers have failed fitness tests each year in the past 24 months.

In 2011, of the 762 officers put through their paces across Thames Valley, 21 failed, and in 2012, 24 out of 945 didn’t make the grade.

Those in training are checked three times in their first two years and officers in specialist roles are tested annually. From October, all police officers will be required to pass an annual fitness test.

If officers fail they are subject to a re-testing procedure which involves an action plan.

Thames Valley Police said it was “unable” to break the figures down to show how many Oxfordshire officers failed.

Officers, PCSOs and special constables have to pass a fitness test to join the force.