ARE you special - could you make a difference? That's the question police will be asking residents across the Eastleigh borough during a recruiting campaign at the weekend.

A similar campaign last year helped to boost the number of special constables and police are hoping that more people will again step forward.

There are currently 31 specials based at Eastleigh and one at Hedge End who will be out at key locations during the campaign weekend providing information and advice to potential recruits.

In Eastleigh, the part-timers will be running a promotional stand in the Swan Centre, where they hope to capture the attention of shoppers.

Insp Brian Gravenor, the man responsible for specials in the West Hampshire Basic Command Unit - which stretches from Andover to Hamble - said: "Special constables have all the powers of their full-time colleagues in Hampshire.

"They undertake a whole range of duties to support the regular officers. It is a very rewarding role and specials get a real sense of pride and achievement by putting something really valuable back into society.

"They can make a huge difference within their local community and the reassurance they provide to members of the public is considerable and should not be underestimated."

Anyone aged between 18-and-a-half and 50, of good character, in good health and who has a right to reside in this country without restrictions can join up.

A new special undertakes an initial four-week training programme and then receives ongoing training over the following year amounting to a couple of hours each month. There is also 'on the job' training when out on patrol.

An Eastleigh spokesman said: "Anyone thinking of joining the police service would find being a special particularly beneficial as it would provide a firm foundation on which to launch their career.

"Members of ethnic minority groups are currently under-represented in the force and are encouraged to apply."

For further information contact your local police station on 0845 045 4545.