WILTSHIRE Police has welcomed its largest intake of special constables in several years, with 22 new volunteer officers joining the force.

The new recruits were officially welcomed on Saturday, March 28 marking a significant boost for neighbourhood and response policing across the county.

Of the 22, 17 are brand new officers who will begin their training in the coming weeks, while five have transferred from Gloucestershire, bringing with them valuable frontline experience.

Once fully trained, the special constables will support regular officers across a range of duties, helping to strengthen policing presence in communities.

Their training will take place during evenings and weekends, allowing them to balance volunteering alongside their full-time jobs.

A spokesperson for Wiltshire Police said: “This is our largest intake in several years, and we couldn’t be more excited.”

Special constables are volunteer police officers who hold the same powers as regular officers, playing a vital role in supporting day-to-day policing.

Their contribution is particularly important in rural areas like Wiltshire where additional visibility and community engagement can make a significant difference.

After completing their initial training, the new recruits will be deployed on response and neighbourhood teams, working alongside experienced officers to tackle crime and support residents.

The spokesperson added: “After completing their initial training, which is delivered during evenings and weekends alongside their full-time jobs, these dedicated volunteers will be out supporting our communities on response and neighbourhood teams.

“A huge congratulations and warm welcome to all! Thank you for choosing to make a difference.”