THEY are not called specials for nothing. Anyone signing up to be a Special Constable must have the energy and dedication to hold down their own job while becoming a police officer part time.

As North Yorkshire police launches a recruitment drive to nearly double the number of specials, it is quite right that they begin by stressing the size of the commitment.

Weekends and evenings are spent training in all aspects of force work. Then recruits are expected to spend at least four hours a week in uniform.

There are also risks. Volunteers put themselves on the front line. That was shockingly brought home when Special Constable Glenn Goodman was shot dead by an IRA gunman near Tadcaster 13 years ago.

Yet the rewards can be huge. No one does it for the money - there isn't any. But little beats the satisfaction Special Constables take from giving something back to their communities.

Existing specials are the best advert for the job, and they are at the heart of the recruitment campaign. They say the police role gives them new skills, improves confidence and instils a sense of pride.

A butcher, a bee keeper and a miner are among those already helping to keep North Yorkshire safe. They are special: the question today is - are you?

Updated: 10:24 Monday, June 27, 2005