A RECRUITMENT drive to boost the ranks of Suffolk's Special Constabulary has been launched with a simple question: "Could You Volunteer?"The query is aimed at men and women across the county who feel they have what it takes to become a Special Constable.

A RECRUITMENT drive to boost the ranks of Suffolk's Special Constabulary has been launched with a simple question: "Could You Volunteer?"

The query is aimed at men and women across the county who feel they have what it takes to become a Special Constable.

The local recruitment drive is based around a countywide series of information evenings which will allow potential recruits to find out more about the rewards of a career as a Special.

It is being launched as part of a national recruitment campaign, which features a series of adverts showing the type of challenges a Special Constable might face while on duty.

Suffolk Special Constabulary Commandant Martin Ashburn said: "We currently have 321 Specials carrying out their duties in Suffolk. Our aim is to increase that number towards the 400 mark during the course of this year.

"This recruitment drive dovetails with the on-going campaign to take on an extra 195 regular officers over the next few years as part of the Suffolk First programme, which aims to make the county the safest in the country."

Special Constables get involved in all forms of community-based policing and receive full training to enable them to carry out a very demanding role.

Mr Ashburn said: "Special Constables play a vital role, working alongside regular officers, in keeping Suffolk safe.

"It takes a special kind of person with certain qualities to wear the uniform of a Special Constable. We want people to ask themselves whether they could volunteer – and if the answer is "yes", to call our recruitment hotline on (01473) 613640."