GREATER Manchester is one of eight police forces spearheading a drive to boost the numbers of volunteer Special Constables.

Greater Manchester Police has been selected because the force has received recognition for its work with Specials.

Home Office minister John Denham said Specials make an invaluable contribution to high-visibility policing, crime reduction initiatives in addition to policing major incidents and events. Other forces taking part in the recruitment drive include Merseyside.

Mr Denham said: "Special Constables play a vital role within the wider police family and are an important element of our police reform agenda. The skills, experience and local knowledge they voluntarily bring to policing makes a real difference to the communities they serve."