A NORTH Yorkshire Police Community Support Officer is backing a drive to encourage more people from Ryedale to join the Royal Navy.

Joanne Lane, who works as a PCSO for North Yorkshire Police in Acomb, York, but lives in Malton, is an Able Seaman in the Royal Naval Reserve (RNR) and now wants to encourage others to follow in her footsteps.

“The reserves offer something for everyone, even if you don’t have any previous military experience, and I would definitely encourage people to sign up,” she said.

The 34-year-old joined the Royal Naval Reserve last March having previously served full-time with the logistics branch of the Royal Navy from 2001 to 2005. She is now backing a campaign to increase the number of reservists in the region.

Joanne said: “After I left the Navy, I really missed the team spirit and camaraderie – as well as all the benefits of Navy life, such as the travel opportunities and the paid training.

“I stayed in touch with my Navy colleagues, and in 2013 I decided to sign up to the reserves. I’m so glad I did as it offers me the best of both worlds.”

New recruits must be between the ages of 16 and 40 and no previous military experience is needed however, reservists must be able to commit to the equivalent of 24 days a year for paid training.

For more information on requirements and how to get involved visit royalnavy.mod.uk/navyreserves