NEW moves to pay special constables for the first time don't count for anything for one of them, a mother-of three who patrols one of the most isolated and beautiful beats in the country.

Michelle Robson volunteered five years ago to spend a few hours a week as a part-time policewoman in her home area of Weardale.

She works between Stanhope and the Cumbrian border at Killhope, calling in on schools and youth groups as well as covering normal police duties.

On Saturday, she shared her shift in St John's Chapel with Government Chief Whip Hilary Armstrong to promote the first national Specials Weekend.

Forces around the country used the event to encourage more people to join up by highlighting the contribution of people who help tackle crime.

The weekend coincided with a number of modernising initiatives including a new website, a recruitment guide and a trial of locally-funded payments.

Special constables wear the same uniform as police and carry out the same duties. But some have complained because Neighbourhood Wardens brought in to work in problem urban areas are paid, while they are not.

Mrs Robson said: "It is a big issue for some specials but it isn't for me, even though all I can claim is my bus fare. I like doing what I do. I have trained hard and I am still learning.

"Specials train for 20 weeks but we only start learning properly when we go out with the regulars, who have never made me feel anything but welcome."

Police forces like Durham are always recruiting because many specials end up joining the full-time force.

Ms Armstrong said: "The payments may help us get more people in. There won't be a lot of money but it will be a recognition of the contribution the specials make to our communities."

Police divisions around the county put specials to work targeting misbehaving youths, acting as observers in the police helicopter and carrying out speed checks.

Contact Durham police headquarters on (0191) 3864929 or visit www.specialconstables. gov.uk.