TEN new special constables have become the first group to join Wiltshire Police since it was announced that an extra 500 would be recruited by the force.

After twelve weeks of intensive training the special constables were sworn in during a ceremony at Devizes Police Headquarters, which was attended by Police and Crime Commissioner Angus Macpherson and Assistant Chief Constable Paul Mills.

The group, who are volunteers and have the same powers as regular police officers, will now join community policing teams across the county.

Mr Macpherson said: “I am very pleased to welcome these volunteers, the first of our new cohort of special constables to the force.

“The public play a key role in policing our communities and specials bring with them a variety of skills and experience from business and industry.

“I look forward to these officers becoming an integral part of Wiltshire Police, supporting the force at a time when we are addressing higher demand and a greater breadth of crime.

“I want to express my thanks to all special constables who volunteer their time with Wiltshire Police and their family and employers who offer them support to do this.”

Inspector Kate Priest, lead of the development project, believes more volunteers will come forward in the coming months to join the programme.

She said: “Becoming a warranted police officer, with the powers as regular officers is a responsible and demanding role.

“I have every confidence these new officers will now develop operational policing skills and display the values and behaviours the public of Wiltshire expect from their local officers.

“I wish the new officers well in their new role and look forward to welcoming and training many more volunteer constables in the coming months.”

For more information about the special constabulary and how to apply visit http://www.wiltshirepolicespecials.co.uk