Chief Officer of Special Constabulary appointed

His role makes him responsible for the leadership and management of some 450 Special Constables across the force area.

Since joining the service in 1984 David has combined his volunteer police role with a busy business schedule that requires extensive travel across Europe and the US, developing and managing key relationships with leading pharmaceutical companies.

He is supported by his employer BD (Becton, Dickinson and Company) a global medical technology company that is focused on improving drug therapy, enhancing the diagnosis of infectious diseases and advancing drug discovery.

"Helping all people live healthy lives is BD's corporate purpose and the inspiration behind our global enterprise," said David.

"It is a call to action that resounds with BD's 25,000 associates around the world, many of whom are involved in regular volunteering. Helping to reduce the fear of crime within our communities has a major positive impact on the quality of people's lives; so it's directly relevant".

In 2005 David received the BD Henry Becton Community Service Award for his work as Special Constabulary District Officer in North Somerset.

"My role is to ensure that we recruit, motivate and retain the best talent we can and to ensure that they are deployed effectively.

"In particular we look to utilise and build upon the skills that Special Constables bring from their own workplace to keep them focused, engaged and recognised for their contribution. In doing so, we deliver tangible benefits to the community, the volunteer, their employer and the police service."

As warranted officers, with full police powers, Special Constables have an important role to play in their communities, particularly as part of the Safer Stronger Neighbourhoods initiative.

"The nature of the volunteer role can really make a difference to the level of the service that can be provided, particularly at times of peak demand such as weekends and evenings," added David.