Norfolk’s Specials are preparing to take part in an intensive training event this weekend as figures reveal the volunteer officers clocked up more than 75,800 hours on duty over the last 12 months.

The two-day course is set to take place at Lenwade House Hotel in Lenwade on Saturday 8 April and Sunday 9 April 2017, with issues including domestic violence, drink driving, custody, public order, ‘stop and account’ being tackled.

Between 1 April 2016 and 31 March 2017 Specials carried out a total of 11,242 duties and completed 75,814 hours on duty.

Norfolk Constabulary’s Chief Constable Simon Bailey, who is attending the event, said Specials play an integral part in the policing of Norfolk.

He said: “Special constables carry out a crucial role in supporting the work of Norfolk Constabulary and the service we provide to the community.

“I am very much looking forward to attending the event and witnessing first-hand the hard work and commitment our Specials continue to show, they are a true credit to the county they serve.”

In the last 12 months Specials also carried out 426 stop/searches, 185 drug seizures and attended 9,842 incidents.

The purpose of the event on 8th and 9th April is to build the confidence of new recruits as they begin their duties and give an opportunity to the more experienced officers to refresh their knowledge of the role.

Specials Manager, Sue Goode, said: “The feedback we have had from Specials who took part in previous exercises has been excellent. The event really encourages Specials to think about how they would tackle a range of scenarios.

“We have a highly professional Special Constabulary which makes a considerable contribution to the operational side of policing.”

Special Chief Officer Malcolm Pearson MBE added: “Being a Special is a very rewarding, fulfilling and interesting role where no two duties are the same.

“Norfolk is always on the look-out for committed individuals who are keen to experience the world of policing while supporting their local community.”

Police and Crime Commissioner Lorne Green said: “Our Special Constabulary is an excellent example of how, used properly, the specialist skills, experience, and dedication of volunteers can add significant value to what our police service does. These highly committed individuals give freely of their time all year round and the role they play in bringing the police and public closer together is a vital one. They are, and must continue to be, a highly valued part of Norfolk’s policing family.”

The Special Constabulary is a voluntary body to help the regular police force in meeting the policing needs of the community. Their roles include providing highly visibility patrols and helping police major incidents and events.

Special Constables provide a vital link in the partnership between the police service and the public.

Anyone interested in joining the Special Constabulary can visit our website at www.norfolk.police.uk or for an informal chat about the role telephone 01953 425699 ext: 2371