The number of police officers in Scotland has reached a record high, with over 17,400 in the country.

The number of officers has increased by 136 during the last quarter - and the total is up 361 over the past year.

Figures also revealed that the number of officers employed in the Lothian and Borders Police force has exceeded 3000 for the first time.

Justice Secretary Kenny MacAskill said: "The Scottish Government pledged to deliver a more visible police presence in our communities which is why we committed ourselves to increasing the number of police officers by 1000 by the end of this Parliament.  

"We are continuing to deliver on that commitment with a record 17,409 police officers on Scotland's streets, making our communities safer places to live and work.  

"Sustaining that achievement demonstrates this government's commitment to providing a well resourced police service.

"I wish to congratulate our chief constables for redeploying officers and delivering more police on our streets. The Scottish Police College is also vital in delivering this record number of trainees during the past year and its excellent work has ensured new police recruits have the skills and training to serve as excellent officers in Scotland's police service."

The Scottish Government says the figures mean that its pledge to deliver 1000 additional officers continues to be delivered, while they continue to provide record levels of funding for police services and the levels of recorded crime have reached a near 30-year low.