Vet's nurse backs police campaign

A volunteer police officer is urging would-be special constables not to let their friends put them off signing up.

Veterinary nurse Alice Ashman is backing Thames Valley Police's campaign to encourage more people to give their free time to the force.

It is part of a national recruitment drive, which sees the launch of National Specials Weekend on Friday.

Ms Ashman, 20, from Bucklebury, Berkshire, says her friends and family now back her despite earlier concerns.

Hostage situation

She said: "My mum was worried about the safety side of things and some of my friends tried to put me off, asking why I would want to be associated with the police.

"Now they can all see how much I am gaining from the experience and are 100% behind me."

She said that the job had increased her self-confidence and added: "I've done a lot of work, particularly with the town centre patrol in Newbury at weekends, which has given me the opportunity to deal with a whole variety of situations.

"I have arrested around eight people and dealt with a hostage situation where, as the only female officer, the offender would only speak with me."

Last year's recruitment campaign has seen 59 new special constables join the force, taking its total number to about 360.

Thames Valley Police chiefs are urging anyone interested to contact their local station.