A FLEETWOOD garage owner's 29 years' service as a Special Constable in Wyre was recognised with an MBE in the New Year's Honours List.

Peter Hutton, 54, will attend a special ceremony at Buckingham Palace later this year to receive the award which marks nearly 30 years' dedication to Lancashire Special Constabulary while at the same time having a full-time job and family.

Mr Hutton, who owns and manages Victoria Street Garage in Fleetwood and an executive chauffeur business, regularly swaps engine grime for fighting crime.

He explained how he got involved with the Specials when he told The Citizen: "I first applied to join the police full time but they said my family and I would have to sell up and move to the other end of the county and I didn't want the upheaval at that time. That was why I looked into joining the Specials, which I did, and the rest is history."

A Special Constable's role is to assist regular officers with their duties and Mr Hutton said that, although at one time they mainly carried out foot patrols, today Special Constables are highly trained and often help with a range of different crimes.

"Although we have a supportive role we are right in the thick of police work. I myself have had to attend murders, so it isn't just being on the beat by any means," said Mr Hutton.

In his time with the Special Constabulary Mr Hutton has moved through the ranks to become a divisional officer, and now has 26 officers under his control covering the whole of Wyre.

He has been congratulated by senior officers and local magistrates numerous times and Lancashire's Chief Constable, Pauline Clare, said: "Mr Hutton has been actively involved in recruiting members of the local community to become special constables. He is a true champion and his efforts certainly deserve recognition. I am delighted for him and offer my most sincere congratulations."