ESSEX Police Force is reaching out to communities across the county in a bid to recruit more special constables.

Special Constables are volunteer Police Officers. They have the same police powers, uniforms and equipment as regular Police Officers but sacrifice their free time on a voluntary basis, organising their busy personal lives, day jobs and other commitments around police duties. They do not get paid, but are reimbursed for expenses.

In its recruiting drive material the force says: "A Special in Essex is someone who will be valued, supported and integrated into the wider policing family. They're someone who will learn new skills, see new things and make tangible differences to the lives of the public they serve. A Special in Essex is someone who makes new friends, sees life from new perspectives and upholds the law.

"A Special Constable is an extraordinary person, a remarkable person, a special person. Join us and be that person.

"Once you have carefully read all the information in our application guide, you can complete an application to join the Essex Police Special Constabulary. Once your application has been reviewed you may be invited to attend an assessment centre. Candidates who are successful at the assessment centre will advance to the next steps of the application process which will include a fitness test, vetting, a medical and reference checks.

"We look forward to receiving your application and welcoming you into one of the most fulfilling volunteer careers there is."

Find out more by visiting the force recruitment page