Strathclyde Police is welcoming the arrival of its la-*test*-('") intake of special constables.

These are the people who pound the beat with regular officers – those members of society who are willing to dedicate their spare time to improving their local communities.

Those interested in joining the scheme are put through their paces during ten weeks of training at the Training and Recruitment Centre at Jackton, as well as Baird Street , Dumbarton and Ayr Police Offices.

Chief Constable, Sir William Rae, has paid tribute to all those specials working in the Strathclyde area. He said: “It’s always fantastic to welcome a new intake of special constables. These valued members of the Force help ensure that Strathclyde is a better place to live. Their efforts compliment the work being carried out by our regular officers and I applaud their commitment to their local communities.”

On Sunday 18 March 2007, the families and friends of 75 new recruits gathered at Jackton to watch their loved ones take the Oath of Office.

Among them was Force Support Officer Thomas McGrory. He has been head commissionaire now for three years. So why join the specials? He answered: “I applied for the regulars before and did not get through. I hope that by becoming a special, I will improve my chances of success. I really want to work in my local community and give something back.”

The 45-year-old added: “We may not get the same money as regular officers, but we do get the same recognition and it’s all about helping improve the quality of lives for others.”

Hazel Turner is also an FSO. She said that the Force ensures that its own employees have the opportunity to take part in the scheme. She said: “You do get extra days off throughout the year to train. You also get to work at the division of your choice and, of course, the £1,000 will come in very handy.”

But the cash is not the real incentive for Hazel. She revealed: “I have been working with the police for ten years and I thoroughly enjoy my job. I wanted to further my career and see this as the ideal chance to do that. I am currently a uniform bar officer and I suppose I really just want to see what life is like on the other side of the counter.”

Assuming such responsibility is a tough job, but Thomas is looking forward to the challenge: “I cannot wait to get out there and do it. Of course, there is a little trepidation as I don’t know what I will be faced with, but hopefully the training I have had will help me through it. I’m sure support from my colleagues will be tremendous too.”

And Hazel – any fears? She said: “Definitely not. All you need is determination and motivation, which I have. I am excited about getting to know my local community and the people in it. I would say to anyone who is thinking about joining the specials to go for it. Pop in to your local police office and get as much information you can, then take that leap. It’s worth it.”