A SHORTAGE of special constables in West Devon has prompted a recruitment drive in the borough.
The force is trying to raise the profile of the special constabulary and is on the lookout for volunteer recruits.
Special Constable Barry Pyke, newly appointed district officer for West Devon, said: 'We are 50 per cent down on what we should have.
'I think it's an awareness thing really. Whenever we run a TV campaign, for example, we get flooded with applicants — we haven't done that for a while.'
SPC Pyke said officers would be in Safeway in Tavistock during December, when members of the public will be able to question them about the role of the special constabulary.
'We'll be there to chat to people who are interested. We're looking for people with four hours a week to spare — specials are used for all police work now, there isn't anything we don't get involved in.
'Nowadays it's very much front line policing. It's interesting and full of variety,' said SPC Pyke.
He said the work is scheduled to fit in volunteers' employment commitments — special constables could be required to work anywhere in the borough. All training, equipment and uniforms are provided free.
Inspector Nick Rogers of Tavistock Police said: 'Not enough is made of the special constabulary.
'It's a community, voluntary service where ordinary men and women give up their time to assist the regular force — it has a very proud and honourable history.'
Anyone aged 19 to 45 who would like to become a special constable should call into their local police station for further information, or call 0990 777444 and ask for Tavistock Police Station.