People across the county are being urged to consider joining the police force.

Wiltshire Police are especially calling out for people to join as Special Constables in the upcoming year.

There is a target to recruit nearly 40 volunteer officers across the county.

Special Constables are volunteer police officers who have the same powers and responsibilities as full-time officers.

They are required to ideally work a minimum of 16 hours a month.

These volunteers are required to carry out many of the same duties as regular officers, such as investigating crimes, attending road traffic collisions and assisting at public order incidents.

In June 2024, Special Constables contributed more than 2000 hours of volunteer work, which is equal to the work of 14.2 full-time officers.

DCC Craig Dibdin said: "“Volunteers have always played a vital part in policing and Special Constables really are an integral part of Wiltshire Police.

"They are dedicated individuals who bring a unique set of skills and life experience.

"They volunteer their free time to serve their community and in doing so help us deliver our policing plan of keeping Wiltshire safe.”

Rob Bewey has been volunteering as a Special Constable with Wiltshire Police for 20 years.

He said: “This is the best thing that I have ever done.

"The reason that I joined the special constabulary was to serve the community that I live and work in and to keep people of Swindon and surrounding areas safe.”

Ben Williamson has worked as a Special Constable for 12 years.

He said that a standout moment for him was “locating and apprehending someone for murder and seeing them get sentenced to 24 years in prison.”

"It’s the best volunteering in the world," he added.

Nigel Todd, a volunteer of 31 years, has experienced many significant events which led to him receiving awards.

He said: “I was the first person on the scene to a stabbing where my prompt actions helped to save a life, which is a memory that has always stayed with me.

"Another momentous experience was assisting with the repatriations in Royal Wootton Bassett on many occasions. Both of these events resulted in a Chief Constable's award.”

To be eligible to become a Special Constable, those interested must be at least 18 years old, of good character and in good health.

Applicants must also hold level 2 qualifications in maths and English and a full driving licence.