COMMUNITY spirited residents are needed to help the fight against crime in Droitwich Spa.

Police want people to sign up as special constables to perform duties alongside town officers.

Volunteers are welcome from all walks of life but recruits must be aged 18 and a half to 55, of good character and a British, Irish or Commonwealth citizen. There is no height restriction.

Budding bobbies can attend a recruitment evening on Tuesday June 12.

The event at the Raven Hotel, in St Andrew's Street, Droitwich Spa, begins at 7pm.

It will provide an insight into life on the beat and special constables will answer questions.

A police spokesman said: "The special constabulary provides valuable assistance to the day to day work of regular officers.

"Successful candidates have the same lawful powers as regular constables and the support they provide cannot be underestimated.

"This is an ideal opportunity for anyone with a strong sense of community spirit to enrol and give something back."

Specials are asked to volunteer at least four hours per week.

Full uniform, including an allowance for boots, is provided and expenses are paid.

Beginners are given a thorough grounding in police work and trained in self-defence to the same standard as regular officers.

Members of certain professions, such as the armed forces, traffic wardens, the fire service and those working in the private security industry, are not eligible. For details call (01905) 723888.