Train staff turn crime fighters

Arriva operate services across the north of England

A group of train workers have taken up new duties as crime fighters.

The group of 17 Arriva Trains Northern staff are the first to complete training as special constables, under a unique project to boost security and stem anti-social behaviour.

They will work under the supervision of the British Transport Police (BTP).

The project, launched in April, sees recruits work as part of a team of full-time officers carrying out such duties as dealing with football fans and tackling drug related crime.

The specials who will work four hours a week as specials and get an extra £1,000 a year. They will wear police-style uniforms and also be involved in day-to-day issues, such as dealing with trespass.

They will be based at stations on Tyneside, Yorkshire and Humberside.

More than 50 staff volunteered for the project and had to pass a rigorous recruitment process, followed by an intensive two-week residential training programme.

'Police duty'

The training included law, powers of arrest and compiling basic prosecution files.

Dyan Crowther, Arriva's commercial director, said: "We believe that complementary policing plays a vital role in supporting the overall policing of the region's rail network.

"That is why we have supported our employees who have volunteered by providing them with paid leave during their training and giving them paid leave for the equivalent of one full day's pay while on police duty.

"I have no doubt that our specials will make a valuable contribution to British Transport Police and we wish them every success."

Paul Nicholas, assistant chief constable of BTP, said: "These specials will be helping to police the very industry they work in on a day-to-day basis.

"Their success and contribution will benefit their customers, colleagues, employers and themselves, and we will support them fully as they embark on this interesting role."