A BBC DOCUMENTARY series focusing on Special Constables in Cambridgeshire is set to begin on Monday (July 1).

‘The Specials’ will give viewers an insight into the work of a Special Constable, their role and how they contribute to the police service.

Along with the usual drunk and disorderly problems on a Friday and Saturday night, The Specials also takes a look at the less visible side of policing from their personal and work lives, showing how they work alongside regular officers volunteering their time for free. The 15-part series will be screened on BBC One daily at 11am.

The 30-minute episodes feature Specials joining shifts in Cambridge, Peterborough and Wisbech, carrying out drugs raids with the force Tactical Team and assisting the security operation of a royal visit in Cambridge.

Assistant chief constable Mark Hopkins said: “We agreed to film The Specials because we wanted to show members of the public the work Specials carry out and how they contribute towards the overall effectiveness of the force.

“People often don’t know about the work of a Special Constable. They wear the same uniform, carry the same equipment and have the same powers as regular police officers, but are volunteers.

“The series will give a fascinating insight into this less obvious side of policing by following the specials from their personal and work lives to walking the beat, carrying out house-to-house enquiries, working on crimes and incidents such as road collisions, drugs raids and providing security at major events.”

Cambridgeshire’s Police and Commissioner, Sir Graham Bright, said: “I fully support the Specials and want to increase their numbers because they offer valuable assistance to policing in Cambridgeshire and Peterborough. I hope that this series shines a light on the work they do and encourages other people to volunteer their time.”

For more information about the role of a Special and how to become one visit the recruitment section of the force’s website, cambs.police.uk