The number of people applying to join Police Scotland has fallen by more than 50% in just one year, new figures have revealed.

There were 2,237 applicants in 2021-22, down from 5,611 the year before.

The data was revealed in social affairs magazine 1919, which is funded by the Scottish Police Federation (SPF).

It comes as the SPF launched its “most overt action” in a century on Friday, as officers withdrew “goodwill” in a dispute over pay.

Scottish officers are protesting about a “derisory” £565 pay rise offer.

By law, officers cannot take industrial action but will now charge for all overtime and refuse to begin shifts early.

SPF General Secretary Calum Steele described the applicant figures as an “astonishing drop”.

He said: “Policing is clearly becoming less attractive as a career choice, which could be down to issues around pay, funding and falling numbers of officers putting more strain on available resources.