A DRAMATIC drop in the number of special constables in Teignmouth has forced the town's top policeman to ask for community help.
Insp Andy Wagon has appealed to townspeople to help in the fight against crime.
The number of special constables in Teignmouth has dropped from a high of 15 three years ago to the current number of three officers in the town.
Now Insp Wagon is hoping people will rally to the call. He said: 'The number of specials in Teignmouth has fallen significantly over the last few years.
'That makes me very concerned because, being local, specials are a vital part of community policing.
'Specials inevitably reach retirement age or in some cases leave because of personal or work commitments. In some cases specials leave because they are appointed as full time regular officers.
'Being a special can be an exellent way for someone to decide if policing is a suitable career. It is certainly a way for people who are concerned about crime and anti-social behaviour in their communities to do something positive about it.
'We are finding fewer new recruits are coming forward to replace those who retire or leave. It may be because people are working longer hours or because they have more leisure opportunities.
'This shortage of new people may also be due to lack of awareness about the special constabulary. Hopefully this information can change that.'
Being first on the scene of an accident, making an arrest and writing statements are some of the duties special constables can face. They work alongside regular officers to deal with local policing issues.
They are issued with the same equipment and a similar uniform as regular officers and have equal powers while on duty. In return for a minimum commitment of four hours a week special constables receive relevant training and support to enable them to carry out their role effectively. they receive expenses.
Contact Insp Wagon on 01626 874432.