More bobbies are pounding the beat in Huntington, York, thanks to a unique initiative by the parish council and the York Special Constabulary.

Two Specials are being permanently assigned to the Huntington area to help Community PC Adele Thompson cover the area.

Though only part-time, Community Special Constables, Bob Gowlett and Denis Bradley, will spend up to two days a week each walking or cycling around their beats, and hope the sight of a traditional beat bobby will both reassure residents and deter trouble-makers.

"We've had a good reaction so far; the people we have seen think it's good that there's a uniformed presence" said Special Constable Gowlett, who works for Nestl Rowntree.

The two Specials have now been out on their beat for the first time, sporting new police radios bought for them by Huntington Parish Council, who have also given them an office in the community centre.

York Police have also issued the Specials with bikes to get around their patch.

"It's very different to what we were doing before," said Special Constable Gowlett. "It's good to have something to focus on. I think it's nice to have somebody walking about - the kids always come across for a natter."

Acting Inspector Tim Bright said: "The public always wants to see officers on the beat. It'll reassure people and deter the criminal element.

"We've had problems with groups of teenagers drinking and causing damage in some areas of the parish; a visible police presence curbs anti-social behaviour.

"Their work will supplement PC Thompson."

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