RETIRED police officers are being asked to return to duty as emergency services come under increasing pressure due to the covid-19 outbreak.

Greater Manchester Police is asking those who have left the force if they are interested in rejoining through a number of social media posts.

Positions they would be assigned could include frontline roles, dealing with local investigations, supporting call handling and taking reports from the public.

The appeal follows a national plea for retired NHS workers to rejoin as the country battled the coronavirus pandemic.

The post reads: "Due to the current unprecendented situation and the impact of covid-19 on policing and the community, we are looking to re-engage retired police offices."Retired officers interested in rejoining should email details to Covid19Rejoiners@gmp.police.uk. More information can be found on Greater Manchester Police's social media accounts.