POLICE in an east Durham town have launched a recruitment drive in a bid to boost the number of special constables.

There are 11 volunteer officers supporting full-time bobbies in Peterlee and the aim is to swell their numbers to at least 25.

In what is one of Durham Constabulary's busiest divisions, specials, who must commit themselves to a minimum of four hours a week, provide essential auxiliary services to regular officers and the general public.

Training ranges from traffic control to interview skills and time with the specials can be a stepping stone into the regular police force.

Those presently serving in the town include a retired teacher, factory workers, an administration assistant and a car plant employee.

Peterlee is also home to one of Durham's longest serving special constables, John Devlin, from the Easington division. He has given more than 36 years' service, having joined the ranks of the volunteer police in 1965.

Recommending the experience afforded in the specials Mr Devlin said yesterday: "It gives you a very good understanding of society and how it works as you meet all sorts of people in all sorts of situations.

"The job is fulfilling, always interesting and sometimes quite exciting.

"When I was younger I wanted to do voluntary work and becoming a special constable was something I thought would appeal.

"I didn't apply to the regular force as I had already started studying for professional qualifications."

A chartered builder by trade, Mr Devlin, 55, retired from lecturing at Teesside University last year.

He has been commended twice in his career, both times for bravery. On one occasion he was threatened by a man wielding a shotgun.

His second commendation came after a near-riot in Peterlee town centre many years ago when he and several colleagues were surrounded and outnumbered by an angry mob.

A specials recruitment day is taking place in the foyer of Asda in Peterlee, on Saturday between 10am and 2pm.

On Tuesday, there will be a similar event in Peterlee police station between 7pm and 9pm. Those attending will have the chance to speak to serving specials.