A SPECIAL Constable from Tavistock is one of ten 'Specials' who have been recognised for their years of voluntary service to Devon and Cornwall Police.

SC Sgt Dougie Collins was presented with long service and good conduct medals by Chief Constable Shaun Sawyer at a ceremony held at the China Fleet Country Club in Saltash.

The ceremony was also attended by Col Edward Bolitho, the Lord Lieutenant of Cornwall.

Dougie joined Avon and Somerset Constabulary as a Special Constable on December 6, 2002 and transferred to Devon and Cornwall on May 13, 2005. He has served since that time at Tavistock Police Station, a period of unbroken service of just under ten years in both constabularies.

Dougie was promoted to sergeant in 2011 and has been responsible for managing planned events in the West Devon and Dartmoor area as well as supervising a team of Special Constables.

A police spokesman said: 'Douglas has continued to perform a number of duties, including supporting regular officers in the execution of drug warrants and other similar planned operations, as well as performing routine patrol in West Devon.'

Until recently Dougie also assisted in supervising Special Constabulary officers at Okehampton police station within West Devon.

Special Constables volunteer their time to serve the communities and are asked to commit at least 16 hours a month. They perform operational duties, working closely with regular officers and undertaking similar roles. They are issued with the same equipment and a similar uniform as regular officers and have equal powers.