Super Saturday cops were special

Devon part-time officers thanked

Devon's special constables officers joined full-timers on the frontline on the first weekend that lockdown restrictions were lifted, in what some people, police included, dubbed Super Saturday. They conducted high-visibility patrols and helped roads police as they dealt with an increase in visitors to the area.

Chief Superintendent Matt Lawler said: “Re-opening of the tourism and hospitality industry last weekend, combined with an influx of visitors, meant their support to our teams was invaluable.”

In the period April 2019 to May 2020, the force’s 266 attested special constables have contributed 76,779 hours, helping tackle crime in their local area, supporting regular officers by going out on patrol and engaging with our communities. In addition, Devon & Cornwall’s contingent of 360 police support volunteers cover 17 different roles and during the same period they have given up 24,063 hours of their time.

Chief Supt Lawler added: “Since lockdown commenced in March, we have been faced with unique policing challenges and the Special Constabulary have helped respond to this. It has been a huge privilege to work with these individuals who regularly give up their free time.

“For example, when we had huge numbers of people at Exmouth beach a couple of weeks ago, special constables at the scene helped the local policing team to manage the disorder with resilience and professionalism. I would also like to thank their employers, whose flexibility and understanding helps make this important contribution possible.”

Alison Hernandez, Police and Crime Commissioner for Devon, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, said: “While many of our residents and visitors were enjoying the relaxation in lockdown rules by visiting a pub or restaurant our specials were pulling on a uniform and helping to keep others safe.”