A RECRUITMENT drive has been launched by West Mercia police to get more Special Constables on the beat in the Malvern area.

The move follows a spate of transferrals from the volunteer ranks to the full-time force.

A campaign to raise awareness of the work of Special Constables began this week. Members will be on hand at Safeway in Roman Way, Malvern. between 10am-4pm tomorrow (Saturday) to answer questions and talk about what they do.

The Specials, who give a minimum of four hours' duty a week, have the same powers of arrest as regular officers, carry the same equipment and are given the same training. They are also permitted to drive police vehicles.

Colin Smith, who runs a vehicle accident repair centre, joined the Special Constabulary eight years ago and has made more than 70 arrests in that time.

He said: "Since joining, I've attended minor incidents such as kids breaking windows, up to major road incidents and helping regular police officers.

"Some of the sights are not always pleasant but there's such a sense of satisfaction about what you do, especially on making arrests. Only last week, while off duty, I arrested a shoplifter in my local supermarket."

There is no height requirement to join the Specials but recruits must be aged between 18 and 50, of good character and a British, Irish or Commonwealth citizen. Full uniform, including an allowance for boots, is provided and all out-of-pocket expenses reimbursed.

Candidates must be physically fit and will be trained in self-defence to the same standard as regular officers. For further details, ring 01905 331014.