AN EVENT has been held to celebrate the volunteers who give up their free time to help keep Cheshire safe.

Police and crime commissioner David Keane and chief constable Darren Martland welcomed police volunteers to a special event held at Cheshire Constabulary headquarters in Winsford this week.

The event, which coincides with Volunteers’ Week, is an opportunity for the commissioner and chief constable to say ‘thank you’ to the many volunteers who have supported Cheshire Constabulary and the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner (OPCC) over the past year.

Mr Keane said: “I am immensely proud of the work our volunteers carry out and it is important we recognise the amazing contribution they selflessly make every day.

“From assessing the effectiveness of key policing functions like custody suites, 999 calls and help desks to supporting frontline police officers as part of the special constabulary or police cadets, all volunteers play an important role in helping us keep Cheshire safe.

“It was fantastic to meet so many inspiring individuals at the event and hear their motivational stories about the volunteering work they have been involved in.”

Chief Constable Darren Martland added: “All our volunteers are highly valued and play a key role in helping to ensure we can provide the best possible service to the public of Cheshire.

“As part of Volunteers’ Week, we wanted to hold a special appreciation evening for our volunteers to thank those individuals who give up their free time to help support local policing, and give them the recognition they deserve.

“Our volunteers really do make a vital difference to our communities, and I cannot express my gratitude enough for the dedication and commitment they give to Cheshire Constabulary.”