HALTON people are invited to take on a new challenge in the new year by becoming volunteer police officers.

A recruitment drive has been launched by Cheshire Constabulary.

An awareness seminar is being held at Riverside College. Widnes, on Thursday, January 16.

Special constables work in with regular officers to help solve local policing problems, perform policing duties at events and provide public reassurance.

A spokesman for Cheshire Police said: “Special Constables come from all walks of life. They have the drive and determination to devote some of their free time to working with the police to improve the quality of their communities.”

Special Constables have the same powers as regular officers and are issued with full uniform and the same equipment.

In return for their commitment, a minimum of 17 hours a month, a special constable receives first class training and support.

Special constables are not paid for their time but they do receive agreed travelling and out of pocket expenses.

To register for the seminar or find our more about becoming a special constable, visit www.cheshire.police.uk/jobs/special-constables.aspx.