A BID for cash to provide volunteer special constables with the same equipment and training as their full-time colleagues is being launched by Chief Constable Pauline Clare.

The £278,000 move comes as police in Blackburn launch a new recruitment drive to boost the ranks of the division's "part-time bobbies".

The force will aim for cash to buy equipment such as side-handled batons, quick cuffs and protective clothing, as well as for training.

Lancashire Police Authority's finance and general purposes committee will be told of the Chief Constable's bid tomorrow.

The Home Office is providing up to £1 million for equipment and training bids this month, but forces are being asked to seek funding from outside sources to help foot the bill. Forces are being invited to make further bids next month for another £5 million which is being made available for other areas of special constabulary work.

Blackburn division currently has around 40 specials but it is hoped the recruitment campaign will lead to a substantial increase.

The volunteer officers already have the use of a patrol car and have taken delivery of two new mountain bikes.

Acting Inspector Adrian Myhill said: "Applicants will be interviewed by local officers and will be used to address the various initiatives we have in the area.

"We are looking for people over 18 from Blackburn and Darwen to carry out all aspects of police work in their local community, alongside full-time officers. "They will get the chance to put their skills to use in a police environment as well as picking up skills which they can use in their own employment and elsewhere."

Further details on how to become a special are available from the personnel department at Lancashire Constabulary, PO Box 77, Hutton, Preston, PR4 5SB, Tel: 01772 209200.

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