NORTHUMBRIA Police are looking for local people to sign up to be a Special Constable.

Specials are made up of members of the public who volunteer their time to take on the duties of a police officer to help their local community.

It doesn’t have to be a massive commitment, you can do as little as four hours a week or you can take after one of the force’s current Special Constables who went above and beyond and carried out 2,148 hours service in last 12 months.

There is a minimum age of 18 to join and the oldest volunteer is currently 60.

The latest recruits joined the force in the New Year, but many have dedicated decades to the force, one with a 38-year service history.

Chief Superintendent Sarah Pitt, expressed her gratitude to those who volunteer.

“The work of our volunteers is nothing less than extraordinary and the skills, attributes and experience gained by becoming a Special are limitless,” she said.

“We’re looking for people who might feel the need for a change in their lives, a new adventure or positive use of their time.

“Specials enable us to continue to provide an outstanding service to the communities we serve by supporting us operationally.”