Volunteers and the Special Constabulary praised by police boss

He praised the important role they play in the community, acting as the eyes and ears of the people.

As National Volunteers’ Week closed at the weekend, he said: “I really value the role the voluntary sector can and does play daily in enhancing community safety and supporting policing.

“There are a wide variety of opportunities to get involved and make a difference to your local community, from a young age as a police cadet through to police support volunteers, who come from all age groups and backgrounds to assist the force with day-to-day activities.

“As Police and Crime Commissioner, I also have my team of Community Support Ambassadors acting as my ‘eyes and ears’ across the county, while the Independent Custody Visitors provide an invaluable service by attending police stations to check and report on the treatment of detainees and the conditions in which they are held, to ensure that their rights and entitlements are being observed.”

He said among the most visible volunteers are the men and women who make up the Special Constabulary, working directly alongside their regular colleagues to keep Warwickshire safe.

“Their role in policing is valuable and varied - just as full time officers will tell you, no two shifts are the same and Specials will deal with a similarly wide range of incidents,” added Mr Ball.

Find out more about joining the Specials by visiting www.specialswanted.co.uk for all the details of how to apply.