Suffolk Police are set to hold a series of recruitment evenings as they look to add to their special constabulary ranks.

The county currently has over 200 special constables who regularly give up their spare time to assist the regular police force in keeping Suffolk safe.

Special constable duties include providing high visibility patrols and helping to supervise major incidents and events. They also offer vital links in the partnership between the police service and the public.

The constabulary is now on the lookout for committed recruits who are keen to experience policing and give something back to local communities.

Becoming a special constable is also said to be a good way to try police work if you are considering a career as a full time officer.

Karen Harris, the specials, volunteers and cadets manager, said: 'All of our special officers are highly trained and play an essential role in preventing, reducing and tackling crime.

'We are seeking applicants from all communities in our county with differing skills and experience.

'If you have at least 16 hours a month to offer us - day or night - and you are interested in finding out more, please come along to one of our events.'

Suffolk's Police and Crime Commissioner, Tim Passmore, added: 'These volunteer police officers are not called specials for nothing. We are absolutely indebted to them all; their commitment and enthusiasm is second to none.

'They give up their time for nothing and add a completely different dimension to policing in the county.'

The details for the recruitment evenings being held in the area are as follows:

• Monday, February 12, 6.30pm: Conference Room, Riverside, 4 Canning Road, Lowestoft, NR33 0EQ

• Saturday, March 3, drop-in 10am-4pm: Beccles Town Hall, The Walk, Beccles, Nr34 9AJ

• Monday, July 2, 6.30pm: Conference Room, Riverside, 4 Canning Road, Lowestoft, NR33 0EQ

Anyone looking to go along to an information evening should confirm their attendance by emailing specialsandvolunteers@suffolk.pnn.police.uk.

Application packs will be sent out via email after the event. Applicants must be 18 or over and in good health.

Visit the Suffolk Police website for more information.