NEW moves to pay special constables for the first time do not add to the job satisfaction for one of them - a mother-of three who patrols one of the most isolated 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, County Durham.

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 tackle crime.

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

Special constables wear the same uniform as regular 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 specials are not.

Mrs Robson said: "It is a big issue for some specials but it isn't for me. 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 such as 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. They won't be a lot of money, but they 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.

In Darlington, they focused on under-age drinking, and in Consett and Stanley they went on town centre patrols.

Contact Durham police headquarters on 0191-386-4929, or visit www.specialconstables.gov.uk, for more information.