Norfolk police is looking to grow its ranks of special constables.

The county has some 193 volunteers supporting regular officers, and another 38 are in the recruitment process.

Assistant Chief Constable Paul Sanford said: 'Special constables are an integral part of our policing team and whatever your motivation, being part of the wider policing family is exciting, challenging and rewarding.

'We're extremely proud of the team we have in Norfolk and the hours they dedicate to support local policing. We would be interested in hearing from anyone who may be keen to gain new skills or give something back to their community.'

A number of recruitment information events will be taking place across the county over the coming weeks and a promotional video has been launched.

Eastern Daily Press: Norfolk Police has launched a campaign to recruit more special constables Picture: Norfolk PoliceNorfolk Police has launched a campaign to recruit more special constables Picture: Norfolk Police (Image: Norfolk Police)

The role of a special constable includes providing high visibility patrols and helping to police major incidents and events.

They also offer vital links in the partnership between the police service and the public.

During the whole of 2017 Norfolk's specials clocked up some 62,369 hours on duty.

The campaign, which uses the hashtag #BecauseYouCan, features special sergeant Jason Crisp.

The 46-year-old Post Office worker, has been a special for more than two years mainly in the Wymondham and South Norfolk area.

He said: 'No two duties are the same. I regularly face challenging situations on every shift and you have to deal with each job differently.

'I pride myself in being able to keep situations calm and stable, especially as many incidents we attend can involve heated situations.

'Yes it's challenging; being late off an eight hour shift with no pay but it's exceptionally rewarding and I wouldn't change it for anything.'

Mr Crisp recalled one incident where officers had been called regarding concerns for the safety of a man.

The man had attempted to take his own life and refused to go to hospital, he was angry and aggressive and in need of help.

He said: 'I sat on the floor just talking and reassuring him there was always help and support.

'After some time he agreed to go to hospital and I promised to travel with him, reassuring him everything would be ok. I was two hours late off shift but that didn't matter; I knew deep down I had made a difference in that man's life.'

Special chief officer Darren Taylor said: 'It takes huge dedication to put on the police uniform as a volunteer.

'However I can assure those that are interested will develop a wealth of transferable skills and experience, a journey unique to the policing family.'

Anyone interested in becoming a Special can download an application form from the Constabulary's website. The recruitment events are as follows:

Wednesday October 10 – Gorleston Pavilion Theatre, 7.30pm

Monday October 22 – Yarmouth Library, Tolhouse Street, 7.30pm

Tuesday October 23 – Operation and Communication Centre, Wymondham 6.45pm