LAST weekend saw the Special Constabulary take to the roads to address some of the issues causing concern to the public.

The Tavistock section of the Special Constabulary aimed to tackle the main concerns that have been raised by residents at a number of PACT meetings (Partners And Communities Together). Traffic, particularly speed, was the most cited concern.

Sgt Dave Anning said: 'Speed is a theme raised in every neighbourhood in the country.

'Tavistock's Special Constabulary are trained in the use of equipment for monitoring speed, both for the purpose of providing advice and for enforcing the law.'

As well as monitoring the speed of traffic in areas the public had highlighted as problematic, officers were paying particular attention to the standards of driving, including the use of mobile phones.

'The traffic department provided support from Plympton and Launceston, ensuring there were plenty of yellow jackets visible in and around the town, and a formidable pursuit capacity in the event of anyone not wishing to stop — fortunately this was not required,' said Sgt Anning.

A limited number of tickets were issued and a considerable number of verbal warnings were given to travellers exceeding speed limits.

Other drivers involved in minor infringements were given either a rectification notice, for faults on the vehicle, or advice.

The officers carried out a number of breath tests over the weekend, but found no-one committing a drink-driving offence.

Sgt Anning said: 'The officers also dealt with a number of other incidents. These included a collision on the edge of Mary Tavy, an assault, an offence of criminal damage and other reports of anti-social behaviour.'

The Special Constabulary is a part-time police force, made up of volunteers from the public who, when on duty, wear a uniform and have full police powers.

The Tavistock section is headed by chief inspector Barry Pike and currently has 12 officers.

Sgt Anning praised the work of the dedicated volunteers: 'We are really fortunate to have a large and highly competent section of Special Constabulary officers here. The level of commitment is genuinely exceptional and this is just one of a number of operations the Special Constabulary has run recently. I can't praise Chief Inspector Pike and his officers enough.

'As well as providing regular patrols, we have always been able to rely on our special constables turning out in any emergency, be it foul weather, special events or major crime.

'As well as their police training, they bring their own individual skills to work with them and are an integral part of the policing team in Tavistock.'

Anyone interested in joining the Special Constabulary in Tavistock or Okehampton, contact Chief Inspector Pike through the Force Enquiry Centre on 08452 777444 or email [email protected]">[email protected]