A SUFFOLK Special Constabulary information evening is being held in Lowestoft next Wednesday for people interested in helping out their local community.

A SUFFOLK Special Constabulary information evening is being held in Lowestoft next Wednesday for people interested in helping out their local community.

Suffolk Police are always keen to recruit new special constables, who are volunteers that regularly give up some of their time to help make their local towns and villages safer places.

Whether you see it as a way to give something back or as the first step on the ladder to a career as a full-time officer, you will be made welcome at the 'Special' information evening being held at Lowestoft's Hotel Victoria on Kirkley Cliff Road from 7.30pm.

Becoming a Special Constable means you give up a few hours each month and gain new friends and new skills. You won't be stuck behind a desk but will be out carrying uniformed patrols, dealing with incidents and assisting in catching those responsible for committing crime.

You may also get involved in event policing, such as local carnivals - particularly during the summer - and sometimes even help carry out drug warrants. You will also become a valued member of a local Safer Neighbourhood Team - whether you wish to get involved in the Lowestoft area, Waveney or elsewhere in Suffolk.

The information evening aims to give you more details about what being a Special Constable is all about - the rewards, the challenges and how you can make a difference.

You will need to be aged eighteen or over and have the ability to think on your feet, work as part of a team and keep cool in difficult situations, but beyond this there is no need for formal qualifications.

If you can't attend but would like more information about becoming a Special Constable please go to our website www.suffolk.police.uk or call Special Recruitment Officer Mick Mann on 01473 613638 or email mick.mann@suffolk.pnn.police.uk.