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Police Scotland have triggered a sexism storm after posting a picture of female officers with the caption: “More than just pretty faces.”

Police chiefs were slammed for “going back to the 1970s” with the selfie of three women in uniform which was posted on the Facebook page of Edinburgh Police Division on Tuesday as part of a recruitment drive that promised “opportunities for everyone”.

But the post sparked a blazing row as social media users claimed the force was using outdated and offensive language. Some branded the caption “outrageous”, “medieval” and “condescending”.

The force insisted no offence had been caused and tried to defend the post by saying it was written by a woman.

Under the caption “these ladies are more than just pretty faces”, the post read: “From SPC [Special Police Constable] to Superintendent, there are opportunities for everyone in the police. Don’t sit and wonder what it would be like, come and join us - we are recruiting!”

On Wednesday morning, the force responded with another message - but managed to provoke more uproar.

Edinburgh Police Division wrote on Facebook: “No offence caused folks. I was merely making reference to the fact these women (and men) work very hard and we are appreciative of all they do in their respective jobs - whether that’s as a volunteer for police scotland or one of the commanders for the division.

“This was in fact written by a 31-year-old female, who like many others initially noticed their beaming smiles and pretty faces. But as an officer myself, I know the job they do well and would encourage any of you men, women, ‘pretty’ or ‘ugly’ to step up and see if you have what it takes!”

Social media user Diane Gray wrote: “I am sure these fine women are doing a great job - but commenting on their facial appearance? In this day and age? Not PC is it?”

Kelly Wood wrote: “Commenting on appearance. Back to the dark ages. Ridiculous get it sorted!”

Karen Mechan wrote: “Come on that’s more than just a bit condescending Police Scotland! You really should know better...even though I’m sure no offence was meant. 2017 not 1917.....”

David Grant wrote: “Ladies and pretty faces all in the one sentence. Woohoo, it’s 1972 again! Maybe want to rethink that headline?”

Karen Kennedy wrote: “‘Pretty faces’... equality and diversity training perhaps needed for your social media team? Outrageous.” Sanji Babes wrote: “I don’t care whether police officers are pretty or not. To have this comment with a photo of female police officers is just cringeworthy.”