STUDENTS hoping to become special police constables were told about the duties of the job and given a tour of the station.

Youngsters studying public services at Darlington College of Technology were talked through the role by Special Constable David Dean and Sergeant Bill Dutton as part of Durham Constabulary's Specials week.

The week has been designed to celebrate and raise awareness of the part-time position on the beat.

Sgt Dutton said: "Special constables have pretty much the same powers as a normal policeman.

"People with another job find it appeals to them to come and put some hours in, while others come to do it to see if it's the career they want to follow."

Lecturer Helen Cook said: "The students are very interested in being a special constable. Some kids come in with jeans and a T-shirt with a bit of an attitude, but as soon as they talk about the police they seem to change and grow a few years."

Durham Constabulary's special recruitment officer Carol Oliver said: "Hopefully, it'll help these students decide if this is the road they want to travel. Their lecturer seems to think their presence has been very good and useful."

For information on becoming a special constable, or an application pack, contact Ms Oliver on (01325) 742060.