GLOUCESTERSHIRE Constabulary is launching a major public recruitment campaign to increase the number of special constables.

The current 124 special constables are all volunteers who freely give up their spare time to keep people safe and make a hugely significant and much valued contribution to the policing of the county.

Now the constabulary want to substantially increase their numbers with the aim of reaching 300 special constables by 2019.

The force is already working to secure another 50 new regular recruits to join by March 2018 and totalling 1,075 full time officers.

Deputy chief constable Rod Hansen said: “Special Constables have been an integral part of the policing family for over 185 years and today's volunteer police officers are better trained and equipped, and involved in more varied work than ever before.

“They have the same lawful powers as full time officers and are governed by, and accountable to, the same police regulations, Code of Ethics, values and principles.

“Many of the qualities we seek in our new special constables are those that police staff already have and demonstrate on a daily basis.

“Some may consider joining the special constabulary as a way to develop an increased understanding of the force; an opportunity to develop new skills; a different and more direct way to serve the public and contribute personally to front-line policing.

“In whatever capacity they serve special constables will play an increasingly important and integrated role within the organisation and form crucial links with our communities.”

As a Special Constable you will be asked to give a minimum of 16 hours of your free time each month as a volunteer officer.

The recruitment campaign officially launches on Monday, January 23 2017, information evenings will be held across the county.

For more information, to register your interest or to find your nearest information evening, visit https://www.gloucestershire.police.uk/campaigns/special-constabulary/