An innovative new course is being launched in Coventry to help potential new recruits prepare for a career with the police.

An introduction to the access course being run by Coventry Technical College will be held at Coventry City Football Club next week.

The pre-recruitment course has been developed to give local men and women the opportunity to discover whether the police force is for them.

Those interested in the idea are invited to an information evening in the Carling Suite at Highfield Road on Wednesday 24 January at 6.30pm.

Representatives from the police, the college and the club will be on hand to answer any questions to help people decide if joining West Midlands Police could be their New Year goal.

The course itself will take place at the Coventry City FC Education and Training Centre at Coventry Technical College in the Butts and will begin in February.

There are no formal qualification requirements but all students must satisfy the basic entry requirements for the police.

The course will either be run free in the day-time or will be an evening course with a nominal fee. It will include:

• Communications
• Numeracy and literacy
• Teambuilding/leadership
• Fitness training and interview techniques
• Knowledge of the police service
• IT skills and basic first aid

Supt Jim McGinty, commander of Little Park Street police station, said:

"I urge people interested in a police career to come and have a look at us in a relaxed environment. The presentation is informative and will hopefully convince potential recruits to join."

Superintendent Bob Minshull, commander of Stoney Stanton Road, added:

"Our service relies on local officers working with the community to tackle crime, anti-social behaviour and a multitude of other issues. It is from these communities we draw the police officers of the future to carry on the fine traditions of the service."

Christian Smith, Marketing Manager of Coventry City Football Club said:

"This is an excellent opportunity for the football club to further its involvement in the local community. It is with great pleasure that we have teamed up with our good friends from both Coventry Technical College and West Midlands Police for such a worthwhile exercise."