THE government has finally answered the nation's call for more bobbies on the beat - a cry strongly echoed in Bordon.

It has announced plans to spend around £270 million per year in bolstering the current force of 12,000 unpaid Special Constables.

Home Office documents outlined the reasons for the proposal. "The feelings of insecurity and lack of confidence amongst the public, often taking the form of the demand for 'more bobbies on the beat', are real and can have a significant impact on individuals' quality of life.

"They are not necessarily relieved by an approach which focuses solely on tackling criminality and the reduction of crime.

"It seems clear that we must address public demand to increase visible presence of authority figures and enhance the accessibility of police services."

It is believed that the new officers will receive an hourly rate of £6.50. A national recruitment drive will begin in January.

The Police Federation has reservations about the scheme however, as it believes that in time, the existence of the new Specials' force will prevent the Home Office from addressing the need for more full-time officers.

This view was also echoed by Whitehill inspector Gerry Thorne who said: "I could do with some more full-time officers rather than part-time ones."

It is felt among Hampshire police officers that most people believe more police patrolling the streets would mean less crime.

Officers have told The Herald that if the government were to allow extra funding to help pay for the extra Specials, then the constabulary would be able to comply.

However, this raises questions about the training and supervision that would have to be given to the part-time officers.

Research has shown that part-time specials have more often than not gone on to become full-time officers after completing a stint in the specials.

It is an effective way of discovering whether or not individuals want to join the force or not.

It is hoped that if these individuals are going to be paid while they undertake 'work experience' then it may attract a greater interest in the police force.

However it is also feared that some Specials who have been doing the job for years may feel aggrieved they have worked for years without pay.