Shirebrook patrol for Polish special

Special constable Michal Lazny spent the day volunteering alongside officers from the Shirebrook Safer Neighbourhood Team on Saturday, October 10.

Sergeant Mark Church had recently seen Michal, who is originally from Poland, on a television news feature and wanted to pick up advice to help better develop relations between police and the Polish community in Shirebrook.

He spent time patrolling the area alongside PCSO Steve Cathcart where they came across a man acting suspiciously.

Officers discovered that Nottinghamshire Police were looking to speak to the man in relation to a dwelling burglary in their county and he was also wanted on warrant and Michal arrested the offender.

The Special also joined Sergeant Church and PC Kat Newton-Jones as they took a statement from a Polish shop worker in the town and met with employees at the Sports Direct depot.

He said: “The Shirebrook Safer Neighbourhood Team is a great example of how strongly motivated and dedicated people can make a difference to the local community.

“I believe that such people are great assets to any police force. It was a pleasure to spend time with Derbyshire Constabulary.”

Sgt Church said: “During Michal’s time with us, it was great to see the initial surprise but then the warm acceptance from residents that a police officer was talking fluently to them in both English and Polish. It certainly helped officers to engage more positively with people and we were able answer lots of questions about various issues.

“We also spoke to people about the possibility of joining the Special Constabulary and Police Volunteer Scheme in Derbyshire.

“I have now been the local Safer Neighbourhood team sergeant for just over six weeks and I am having a great time being supported by a great team. We are committed to making Shirebrook a happy and safe place to live and work.”

Visit www.derbyshire.police.uk/Careers/Special-Constabulary-Recruitment/About-Special-Constabls.aspx.