A TEAM of five Wiltshire Special Constables will be competing for a top award next month.

The officers, from the Melksham police division of west and north Wiltshire, are vying for the Arthur Ellis Memorial Trophy awarded annually to the team which has made a significant contribution to policing in its area.

Forces from across the south west region will be competing for the award at the Hampshire Police Training Centre in Netley, near Southampton, on December 6.

The team chosen to represent Wiltshire includes Divisional Officer David Clark, of Trowbridge, and section officers Phil Cozens of Chippenham, Paul Lewis of Melksham, and Julian Sims of Trowbridge.

The officers sought to address two problems: an increase in anti-social behaviour in towns; and how to provide Special Constables with opportunities to gain experience. Their solution was to run divisional crime vehicles staffed with equal numbers of experienced and probationer officers to provide a small force to target problem areas.

Chief Inspector Nick Ashley, operations commander for north Wiltshire, said: "Wiltshire Constabulary very much appreciates the effort put in by its Special Constables."

For more information about becoming a Special call Graham Hurst on (01249) 449702.