Police launch special appeal

Police are hoping to build on the wave of public support after last week’s disorder in Nottingham at a Special constables recruitment session in Ollerton.

Nottinghamshire Police holds a recruitment drive at Ollerton Town Hall, Sherwood Drive, on Saturday.

An estimated 10,000 messages of support for officers’ positive action against the recent disorder have been sent through internet social networking sites Facebook and Twitter.

The number of people following the force on Twitter has grown from around 2,000 to approximately 16,000 over the last two weeks.

In addition, fans of the force’s Facebook page increased from 700 to almost 6,000.

Nottinghamshire Police superintendant Paul Anderson said this called for an instant response from the force, with Ollerton targeted as a potential place for recruitment.

“This awareness event was arranged for Ollerton because we would like more people in this part of the county, in particular, and the north of the county to join the ranks of our special constabulary,” he said.

“But I have to say it is open to anyone in Nottinghamshire with an interest in serving as a special officer.

“Since the disorder in Nottingham last week, there has been a significant increase in interest from members of the public in the work of the specials.

“I would encourage people to come along to Ollerton and find out how rewarding and challenging it can be.”

To become a special constable applicants must be aged 18 or over and undergo a selection process including a security check, a medical, and fitness test.

Successful applicants receive training before starting work and are asked to give at least 16 hours a month.

To download an application pack or for more information visit http://www.nottinghamshire.police.uk/jobs/special_constables/