A TEAM of Special Constables from Northwich police station have been working on a range of activities to ensure the safety of residents across the town.

On Thursday, August 21 a team of six Special Constables led by Special Sgt Ed Chapman carried out a traffic enforcement operation on Manchester Road, Lostock Gralam, assisted by the village's PCSO Phil Hambleton.

During the day 15 drivers were stopped and reported for prosecution for speeding offences.

On Saturday, August 30 there was a further success for Operation Elne; a Specials-led operation targeting shoplifters in the town. Special Con Doggett was working in the town centre in plain clothes when she witnessed a shoplifting offence occur.

The offender was immediately arrested, however the store decided not to pursue a prosecution.

Inspector Paul Loughlin said: "Shoplifting remains one of our local priorities therefore I am really pleased to have the Special Constabulary working on this issue with the rest of the Neighbourhood Policing Unit."

Following recent concerns raised by members of the community on anti-social cycling in pedestrian areas, seven cyclists were stopped and spoken to by officers in the town centre.

One cyclist decided to ignore the warning and was subsequently issued with a £50 fixed penalty notice.

The day concluded with the find and destruction of a small quantity of controlled drugs, thanks to information provided by a member of the public.

If you would like to make a positive contribution to your community and are interested in joining the Special Constabulary, they are holding a seminar at their HQ in Winsford on Saturday, September 13 at 1pm to provide more information on the role, training and recruitment process.

You can register online at cheshire.police.uk/jobs.aspx under the current vacancies section.