IT takes a special kind of volunteer to join the fight against crime.

And, for one weekend, Bury's 41 Special officers, a team of dedicated and unpaid volunteers, flooded the streets of the borough as part of a massive nationwide recruitment drive.

The National Specials Weekend was organised by the Home Office to attract more recruits by raising the profile of the Special Constabulary, affectionately known as "hobby bobbies".

With an open day at Bury Police Station, the volunteer crimefighters were also out and about doing what they do best, supporting the regular police force in a variety of activities.

These range from providing high visibility foot patrols, public event security, and taking part in a number of anti-crime and disorder operations.

Community affairs boss, Inspector Paul Crosbie, said: "Special constables are dedicated volunteers who give their time freely and contribute an enormous amount to their local communities. Their dedication and professionalism makes them an extremely valuable resource to policing.

"Bury is well served by Special constables, male and female, but there is always room for more. We have had a number of enquiries thanks to the weekend's promotion."

The open day was supported by Bury North MP David Chaytor.

Greater Manchester Police has more than 340 trained Special Constables in their ranks. For more information, contact the GMP Recruitment Unit, telephone 856 2333.