THEY range from single mums to high-flying businessmen and cooks. There's even an undertaker! They regularly swap their everyday lives for the chance to deal with criminals and undesirables - and they don't get paid a penny. So just why do ordinary people take up the chance to become a Special Constable? The Lancashire Evening Telegraph followed the progress of new recruit Simon Venguedasalon on his first day at Blackburn Police Station to see what made him join the Specials and to discover what being a volunteer bobby is all about.

SIMON Venguedasalon left behind a promising career as a chef, working in and around Lancashire, to become a volunteer boy in blue.

"I've always wanted to be a policeman, but was advised to train in another career in case I wasn't accepted in the force," said Simon, who gained hotel and catering qualifications at Accrington and Rossendale College.

"I tried for nearly four years to join the force and was knocked back but I persevered.

"I thought if I put enough hard work into it I would be accepted."

Simon, who lives in Rishton, struck gold when he answered an advertisement in the Lancashire Evening Telegraph.

His written application was accepted by the Lancashire Constabulary and he was invited to attend a selection procedure at police headquarters in Hutton.

He was accepted on to the force, but only after passing the 'police initial recruit' academic test and an interview.

He has attended one of two induction weekends as part of his intensive training to learn every aspect of policing - from the law to baton use. Simon, who is now stationed at Blackburn police station, said: "The selection was really nerve-racking but it was such a great feeling when I was accepted. The no payment aspect doesn't worry me. I work part-time to support myself and I feel it is worth the sacrifice because I want to be a regular officer one day.

"I think it will be satisfying. Every day will be different. I'm really looking forward to it."

Special Constable Simon Wilkinson, who is helping Simon to settle in to his new role, finds the job a constant challenge.

"I have faced all sorts of challenges - from being assaulted and dealing with violent 'domestics' to visiting nurseries and road traffic accidents.

"The regulars help us out a lot and their input is invaluable."

'Special' sums up the essence of volunteer bobbies. Not everyone can juggle jobs and parental responsibilities to slot into regular eight-hour shifts on the beat in the name of 'community spirit'. Inspector Adrian Myhill from Blackburn Police Station said: "Many have occupations they are happy with but want to serve the community as a police constable.

"It is a question of commitment and dedication which is why we value them so much."

Inspector Myhill added: "The expression 'part-time bobbies' degrades what these people do.

"Many have families and hold down full-time jobs and put a lot of hours in to the force. I am in no doubt that they are as professional as the regular officers.

"They learn all aspects of policing and they help us with any skills they may have outside the police service. It is a mutual exchange of skills and expertise."

Anyone who wants more information about joining the Specials should ring Preston 01772 209200 or Inspector Myhill on Blackburn 353507.

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