ANYONE who is keen to help Worcester police crack crime can become involved on the front line by joining the force's team of special constables.

The special was once nicknamed the "hobby bobby", but the police are keen to explain that the special of the 21st Century is very different.

The volunteers play a crucial role in fighting crime as well as helping out at major sporting and community events.

They tackle the same jobs as police officers and have the same powers.

Catherine Gowen Lock is a 22-year-old and a probationer special constable in Worcester.

She decided she wanted to volunteer after finishing her English degree and has worked mainly with the beat managers and quality of life issues in the community.

"It can be quite a shock at first to realise the responsibility that goes with the post," she said.

"Something as simple as someone in the street asking you for directions and treating you as a police officer can be daunting, but you know a standard is expected of you.

"Since I've become operational, the job is so interesting that I'm sure I'll be doing it for a long time."

Bill Mapp has been heavily involved as a special in Worcester for four years and has combined it with his job as an HGV driver.

"Being a special constable means that you are part of West Mercia Constabulary and are a valued member of the team," he said.

"You can take on the jobs that you are comfortable with and there's a great deal of flexibility."

Chief Insp Rod Reynolds said the team of 63 specials working in Worcester and surrounding areas provided valuable assistance to the day-to-day work of police officers.

"Successful candidates have the same lawful powers as police constables, and the support they provide cannot be under-estimated."

Recruits must be aged between 18 and 50 and a British, Irish or Commonwealth citizen. Full uniform and expenses are provided.

Specials are given a grounding in police work and will be trained in self-defence. For more information, call 01905 331014.