IAN CLARKE Norfolk's chief constable Ian McPherson has reinforced his pledge for a “more community based police force” as he prepares to see dozens of special constables in a major training exercise.

IAN CLARKE

Norfolk's chief constable Ian McPherson has reinforced his pledge for a “more community based police force” as he prepares to see dozens of special constables in a major training exercise.

More than 100 specials of all ranks are taking part in the two-day exercise on Saturday and Sunday at the National Construction College at Bircham Newton, near Fakenham.

They will get the chance to experience a series of real life scenarios and test their knowledge and expertise in a controlled event.

After each exercise there will be feedback enabling them to become more confident, or refresh their knowledge, in their roles.

Seven different training scenarios will be tackled such as attending a crime scene, dealing with a road traffic collision, statement taking, custody procedures and how to handle domestic incidents.

Mr McPherson will launch the event on Saturday and said: “The special constabulary is a voluntary body which helps us to conduct policing in a way that meets the needs of the community. Their roles include providing high visibility patrols and helping police major incidents and events.

“The special constables provide a vital link in the partnership between the police service and the public and form a major part of my plans for a more community based police force”.

Mike Hedges, chief officer special constabulary, said, “This training for new recruits is an essential part of their basic training, allowing them to put their skills learnt in theory into practical scenarios.”