The other day, I heard an announcement that more Special Constables are to be recruited for the Dorset area. Probably a good idea, considering that police officers are usually thin on the ground these days.

However, if I may, could I remind those brave men and women who are thinking of volunteering for the role of a Special Constable, that because they will have the powers of a full-time police officer, they will be expected to take chances and put their life on the line to protect the public – just as normal full-time police officers do 365 days a year.

Well, that is the theory, anyway.

And perhaps these brave souls would also like to bear in mind, that when confronting those who choose to break the law they will have to take risks to life and limb.

Like full-time police officers do.

Finally, because police officers are paid extremely well – and receive generous pensions when they decide to retire (just in case any Special Constables want to join the ranks of full-time police officers), being a police officer isn’t simply about sitting in a cosy BMW with your size tens propped up on the dashboard listening to your favourite rock band.

So, if those who wish become Special Constables don’t think the risk is acceptable (and I guess that might also apply to any full-time serving police officers), maybe a librarian would be a better option? Safer too.

ANDREW MARTIN 
Abbotsbury Road, Weymouth