The number of experienced police officers leaving the county's force almost doubled last year.

In total 70 constables with between five and 19 years' service left Kent Police in the period from April 2014 to March this year.

This figure was a 41% increase on the previous financial year's total of 41 constables, which in turn had increased from 32 in 2012/13.

The number of resignations looks set to creep up still further this year, with 36 officers stepping down in the past six months.

Kent Police Federation chairman Ian Pointon says the rise is a direct result of cuts to policing, with the majority of officers leaving the service for good.

Last year only 18% of those resigning joined another force, while so far this year that figure has dropped to 17%.

"The public should be extremely concerned as the loss of such experience will only be replaced by the inexperience of new recruits" - Ian Pointon

Mr Pointon said: "Police officers have had enough. They are beyond breaking point and the next round of cuts — savings of between 25% and 40% are set to be announced in November — will only make matters worse.

"In the main they are leaving for a better job, with better pay and conditions and a better work/life balance.

“These figures do not surprise me and confirm what I have been hearing anecdotally from police officers for some considerable time.

"The overwhelming majority of these police officers are taking their skills and experience and leaving policing.

"The public should be extremely concerned as the loss of such experience will only be replaced by the inexperience of new recruits.

“When I talk to police officers they do not feel valued by this government. They feel as if they are under a constant campaign of denigration.

"They have seen their pay and pensions decimated. They are working harder than ever just to try and stand still.

"They do not see any improvement in this situation for the next five years. They only see it getting worse.

"Frankly, too many do not see their future in policing. I cannot see the experience drain ending and this year we are already set to lose more than last year.”

Mr Pointon said the figures do not include those retiring or embroiled in disciplinary action.

He said officers feel devalued and Kent Police is stuck between a rock and a hard place when it comes to helping them.

Kent Police has been approached for a comment.