Chairman of the Authority Margaret Ollerenshaw says a significant increase in the number of Special Constables is "good news for the people of Cheshire."
The Authority has been told that recruitment is on track to take the number of Specials over the 500 mark by April 2013. During 2011/12 the number of Specials in Cheshire increased by 81. The current total stands at 426.
Margaret Ollerenshaw said, "It is good to see that so many people are prepared to give up their time and help the Constabulary by volunteering as Special Constables. The Specials play an essential role and help to link policing even more closely to local communities.
"They are especially valuable in providing a visible police presence which deters the type of anti social behaviour which can affect people’s everyday lives and which causes a lot of concern.
"Their role isn’t confined to our town centres and neighbourhoods. For instance, Specials provide patrols on a Friday and Saturday night at the Countess of Chester hospital.
"I spent time with them recently on a Saturday night and was enormously impressed by their dedication and enthusiasm.
"Doctors, other hospital staff and patients told me they really appreciate the sight of the police uniforms around the hospital. They believe it plays a vital part in preventing violence and abuse, which we know can happen, especially in A&E departments on busy evenings. The Specials provide a great deal of reassurance for everyone there.
"That is just one example of the way Specials form part of the Neighbourhood Policing Teams. They receive the same training and have the same powers as police officers. The role they play is appreciated by the regular officers they work alongside.
"Specials provide an excellent example of people who are prepared to give their time and effort providing a real service to the community."
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