Cheshire Police Authority announced this week that Cheshire Special Constabulary has been going from strength to strength with more and more people giving up their spare time to help make local residents feel safe and be safe.
In previous years the Constabulary was recruiting an average of 70 new Specials a year but the figure has now gone up to more than 150 volunteers who convert their spare time into action by becoming a Special.
The Special Constabulary plays an integral role in community policing and there is no doubt that their dedication makes a difference to peoples lives. In April, Special Constables led a weekend ArcAngel Intelligence Operation which targeted anti social behaviour caused by drugs and alcohol in Alderley Edge, Wilmslow and Handforth.
Thirty-two Specials took part in the operation on the Friday night, whilst twenty six took part on the Saturday. They were accompanied by passive drug dogs, which identified traces of drugs on people. Drugs were recovered from five people picked out by the dogs and another man was arrested for drunken and disorderly behaviour.
Special Sergeant Phil Godson, who is part of Wilmslow Neighbourhood Policing Unit and was involved in organizing the ArcAngel Operation said, "Work to deal with drink and drug issues and enforce licensing regulations is just a part of what Specials do. We patrol town centres and estates, target areas which have been affected by crime or anti social behaviour and help enforce traffic regulations at locations where there are problems or during special events.
"We work directly alongside regular officers and when we are on duty we carry the same equipment and have the same powers of arrest. Our training provides us with the expertise to deal with issues which are often challenging. I have always found it a really fulfilling role.
"It is a great opportunity for anyone who wants to provide a useful service to the community."
Specials come from all walks of life, they are teachers, taxi drivers, accountants and secretaries to name just a few careers, and all volunteer a minimum of four and a half hours a week.
Margaret Ollerenshaw, Chairman of the Police Authority added, "I have spent time out on patrol observing the work of the very special people who give up their time and who make such a valuable contribution to policing in Cheshire. They bring a broad range of skills and perspectives to solving problems and tackling crime and I am proud that they make such a difference."
If you're interested in becoming a Special Constable you can email Cheshire Police or visit their website to to find out more about volunteering as a Special.
