POLICE in East Cornwall are launching a recruitment drive for special constables with an open day at Callington Town Council offices on February 3. Officers are looking for members of the public who can give up at least four hours of their time each week on a voluntary basis to play a vital part in making their communities a safer place in which to live. There are currently no special constables based at Callington and the constabulary wants to boost its special section across the Caradon and North Cornwall area. Specials carry out the full range of front line police operational duties and work alongside their regular colleagues supporting them with local policing issues, helping to prevent crime and disorder and working to forge stronger links between their local communities and the police. The role is demanding but extremely rewarding, said Neighbourhood Team Leader at Callington Sgt Brett Phillips. 'People join the special constabulary for a variety of reasons. It maybe that they have aspirations in becoming a regular officer or would like to give something back to the community. I would encourage people who are interested to attend the open day. 'Although we are primarily seeking applications for the Callington area, we welcome anyone who meets the criteria and is interested in becoming a special constable.' To join you must be between 18 and a half and 50 years of age, of previous good character, pass the police initial recruitment test and be reasonably fit and in good health. Special constables have the same powers as regular officers while on duty. Their work can range from attending a road traffic collision, obtaining statements from an elderly victim of crime, policing large events or working as a neighbourhood beat officer. The role continues to change and is no longer confined to policing carnivals, fetes and processions. Specials have become more involved in drug and alcohol operations, vehicle crime checkpoints and public disorder van patrols. David Bogatko, who works full time at a care home, joined the special constabulary seven years ago and is now an inspector for the area. 'I hoped it would provide me with the opportunity to become involved with local policing and local issues within my community, which it has,' he said. 'The special constabulary can offer the right person interesting, challenging and demanding situations to deal with which at the same time will also be assisting the local community. You will be amazed at how much difference you can make. 'It took me many months to take the first step to enquire about the special constabulary — I wish I'd done it sooner.' Once candidates are accepted they will start their training with an induction weekend at the force headquarters at Middlemoor in Exeter. They will also attend weekend training sessions in officer safety training and law. They undergo, just like regular officers a period of probation, which lasts no more than 18 months. The open day will run from 2pm to 6pm in the town council offices at the town hall in New Road and be attended by Sgt Brett Phillips and Special Constable Inspector Dave Bogatko. Alternatively, if you require further information about joining the special constabulary contact 08452 777444 or visit http://www.devon-cornwall.police.uk">www.devon-cornwall.police.uk
