BRITISH Transport Police are set to draft in squads of special constables to help reduce crime on the nation's railways, following a successful pilot scheme in Preston.

The 18-month trial, which was brought in to cope with Euro 96 crowds, involved 13 specials being trained up to work with police in several north west stations.

More than 7,700 crimes were reported to the region's BTP last year, ranging from serious assaults to minor drunk and disorderly incidents.

Nationwide, it is hoped more than 400 volunteers will be recruited to help out during major public events and busy weekends. Training includes using batons, law, basic police procedures and railway safety.

Simon Lubin, BTP's public affairs manager, said: "We need a special kind of person who is versatile and tough.

"One minute they could be dealing with a lost child and the next it could be a major terrorist incident involving bombs and casualties. Specials are chosen using the same criteria as the police.

"But it's mainly not about crime, but more about the presence of uniforms. Surveys have shown people want to see more bobbies on the beat for reassurance and peace of mind.

"A crowd of rowdy football fans isn't criminal - they're just happy, but they do cause fear among people and need to be monitored."

A recruitment campaign will kick off in mid-March.

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