MORE than 180 vehicles were stopped by police special constables during a night operation last week.

The initiative, which took place on Friday evening, saw 30 specials from the Wiltshire Police Special Constabulary clamping down on what the force labelled the 'fatal four' - speeding, drink driving, using mobile phones while driving and failing to wear seatbelts.

In Chippenham, Corsham, Trowbridge, Salisbury and Swindon, 30 specials from across the county were actively stopping drivers of vehicles who were suspected of or seen committing one of the fatal four to educated them or take appropriate action.

Special Constables are trained volunteers, who when on duty, have the same powers as police offers.

The evening saw 185 vehicles stopped, 48 breath tests carried out - all results were negative, three people dealt with for not wearing a seatbelt and 58 drivers dealt with for speeding.

In total, 21 fixed penalty notices were issued for a variety of offences including speeding and unroadworthy vehicle conditions. 

Force strategic specials coordinator, Detective Sergeant Joe Saunders, said: “The operation was a success and our intention to educate motorists was well achieved. 

“The reaction from local residents was entirely positive, with people asking us to repeat the activity. Special Constables have an important role within the wider Wiltshire Police family. This operation was run by Specials and shows the valuable contribution volunteers can make in local communities.” 

Anyone wishing to know more about joining the Wiltshire Special Constabulary can contact the SpecialsCoordinator@wiltshire.pnn.police.uk, or call 101 for more information from the recruitment team.