SPECIAL police constables will take part in a series of high-profile operations this month as part of a national campaign to show how vital they are.

The blitz on crime, involving 85 special constables who give their services free-of-charge to Cleveland Police, will target crime and anti-social behaviour across Teesside from Friday, February 21 to Sunday, February 23.

In Hartlepool, they will form part of a team targeting known hot spots for anti-social behaviour. Operation Special Reassurance in Stockton will see them involved in patrols around pubs and clubs where there have been problems.

In Langbaurgh, the officers will carry out fact-finding visits to pubs and clubs, gathering video evidence for use in a plan being developed to tackle disruption at licensed premises.

Commandant Peter Prunty, who leads the force's specials, said: "The specials play an important part in policing Cleveland. They go out on patrol, sometimes on their own, and they do have the power of arrest.

"The average age of our officers is 22 to 23. The majority coming in want to join the regulars and want a taste of police life, so it is a good stepping stone. Others simply want to put something back into the community and help the police service."

Anyone interested in becoming a special constable for Cleveland Police can write to Karen Worton, Recruiting Department, Cleveland Police Headquarters, Ladgate Lane, Middlesbrough TS8 9EH.