A LECTURER, photographer, student and casino inspector are among the latest recruits to join the ranks of North Yorkshire’s part time bobbies.

Twenty six new Special Constables were welcomed to the force at an attestation ceremony held at police headquarters in Newby Wiske.

The attestation - when the officers are sworn in and given their warrant cards - followed an intensive, initial training period of three months.

They will now work with experienced colleagues on their neighbourhood beats who will guide them through the next phase of their training - which can take up to two years.

Assistant Chief Constable Ken McIntosh said: "Being a Special Constable takes a lot of time, energy and sacrifice and in reaching this milestone, our new officers can be extremely proud of themselves.

“It takes a special kind of person to juggle employment, family commitments and leisure time with the demands of being a Special Constable.

"I thank them all for choosing to give up their time for North Yorkshire's communities and welcome them to the force, they can look forward to a challenging but very rewarding career."