CASH-strapped police officers are taking on extra work as photographers, driving instructors and landscapers to make ends meet.

A freedom of information request to West Mercia Police revealed 195 officers across the force have declared an 'outside business interest' so far in 2018 – with ‘property’ topping the list of jobs.

Interests by officers were also declared in admin, beauty treatment, army reserves, retail, social care and teaching.

Police can take on additional employment outside their working hours with approval from their force.

A recent survey by the Police Federation of England and Wales found that more than three quarters of those surveyed said they were dissatisfied with pay and two fifths of officers worried about their personal finances on a daily basis.

In July, police were awarded a two per cent pay increase by Prime Minister Theresa May.

Further, 72.3 per cent of respondents from West Mercia Police felt that they were worse off financially than they were five years ago.

In the same survey, one in ten of respondents said they never had or almost never had enough money to pay for bills and food.

A constable appointed before April 1, 2013 has a starting wage of £24,447 rising to £27,285 after training. The annual salary then rises to £28,869 after serving for two years.

A constable’s salary can rise to £38,382 after completing seven years’ service.

For constables joining now, the annual wage starts at £19,971 rising to £23,124 after initial training and rising to the same seven-year service level of £38,382 as constables joining before 2013.

Chief Constable Anthony Bangham, said: "We know that the situation with the nationally-set pay and conditions for officers is difficult, after a number of years falling behind inflation.

"We understand the impact this has on officers and are committed to doing all we can to support them.

"It is essential that the public has confidence in the integrity and impartiality of the police service.

"There is a policy in place regarding business interests and additional occupations which does not constrain police officers or staff from such undertakings, but is designed to make sure they do not conflict with the work of the police and will not adversely affect the reputation of the individual, the force or the wider police service."