Special constables win national award (From Brentwood Weekly News)

Special constables win national award

12:20pm Monday 6th August 2012 in News By Ryan McCarthy

SPECIAL constables working for Essex Police are among those being acknowledged with a national award.

Specials in the eastern region have won the team award for mutual aid, and will be honoured at the National Special Constabulary and Police Service Volunteers Award ceremony later this year.

Assistant chief constable Maurice Mason said: "The special constabulary is a hugely important part of our force, and this award represents much deserved recognition for their endeavours.

"The specials played a crucial role in Operation Cabinet at Dale Farm, and are a key part of our planning for the Olympic Games.

"Specials from across the eastern region regularly provide mutual aid to partner forces, and this is particularly crucial during major events, such as festivals or marches, and during key anti-crime initiatives.”

Nigel Green, eastern region specials co-ordinator, said: "I would like to thank all officers for their support during these mutual aid operations.

"Specials are volunteers and come from a variety of backgrounds. They give up their time to reduce crime and the fear of crime.”

The support provided by special constables has saved more than £223,000 for police forces across the region.

For more information on becoming a special constable, visit the Essex Police website .