A hilarious manufacturing error now means some police officers will have the word 'POLICE' written upside down on their uniform.

The funny error was spotted during a Hampshire Constabulary training course in Hamble.

At least two officers are now wearing the tops with the mistake on the left sleeve to 'boost morale' within the police force.

Three tops were sent to the force but one member of staff decided to return the faulty garment, while the other two officers will continue to wear it.

Chairman of the Hampshire Police Federation, John Apter, immediately laughed when he saw the uniform and posted a photograph of it online.

He said: "I saw an officer wearing the uniform during a training day at the Hampshire Constabulary headquarters; I initially thought the uniform was inside out.

"I then spoke to an another officer who said he was given one which was exactly the same.

"It was an error by the manufacturing company but it is funny that some of the officers have to decided to wear them.

"It boosts morale within the force because it's funny to see.

"Three officers were given them and I heard one of them sent it back to the manufacturing firm.

"Who knows, they could be worth some money in the future."

Mr Apter said the officers will only wear the uniforms 'internally' and not when they are patrolling the area.

He added: "It makes people simile and I'm sure the uniforms will inject a bit of morale into the police force.

"Although it is an unfortunate error, hopefully people can see the funny side of it."

Steve Langridge saw the picture online and commented: "Run! It's the ECILOP!"

Hampshire Constabulary declined to comment.